The Rivers State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in a disturbing murder and robbery case that has shocked residents across the state.

Acting on the crime-fighting directives of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju, and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, operatives successfully arrested three suspects, recovered a stolen vehicle, and uncovered the remains of a missing victim buried in a shallow grave.

The Journey That Ended in Tragedy

The victim, Christopher Emmanuel Akpabio, a 55-year-old man from Akwa Ibom State, was reported missing on May 22, 2026.

Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly hired him at Garrison Park under the pretense of attending a traditional marriage ceremony in Asarama Community.

Unaware of their true intentions, he agreed to transport them in his black Daihatsu Hijet minibus.

According to police findings, the suspects allegedly murdered him and stole his vehicle.

Shocking Discovery in Andoni

As investigations progressed, detectives made a chilling discovery.

The victim's remains were exhumed from a shallow grave in Asarama Community, confirming fears that he had been murdered after being lured from Port Harcourt.

The remains have since been deposited at University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital mortuary for preservation and further examination.

Three Suspects Arrested

Following an intelligence-driven operation by the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), three suspects were arrested:

David Mark (30)

Nkajit Williams (45)

Godgift John (33)

The arrests were made on May 28, 2026, after days of painstaking investigation.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered

Police also successfully recovered the victim's stolen black Daihatsu Hijet minibus bearing registration number BGM 328 DA.

Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend a fourth suspect who remains at large.

Police Issue Safety Advisory

The Rivers State Police Command has urged residents to exercise caution when entering transportation or business arrangements with unfamiliar persons.

Commercial drivers were specifically advised to:

Inform family members or colleagues before embarking on long-distance trips

Share destination details with trusted contacts

Remain vigilant when accepting unfamiliar passengers

The Command also encouraged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.

Investigation Continues

While three suspects are now in custody, police say investigations remain active as they intensify efforts to dismantle any remaining criminal network connected to the case.

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that criminals find no safe haven in Rivers State.