The abduction of three individuals along the road leading to Port Harcourt International Airport has been officially confirmed by the Rivers State Police Command. The incident occurred on the Obiri-Ikwerre Road stretch towards the airport on the late evening of Tuesday, January 2, 2024. SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the command, conveyed that the police are actively pursuing the abductors.
SP Iringe-Koko stated, “The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has tasked our tactical team commanders and the Divisional Police Officers within the jurisdiction to implement adequate security measures. These measures have been put in place to ensure that the criminals are apprehended.”
According to gathered information, the victims were traveling from the airport area to the Obiri Ikwerre Road when they were ambushed by suspected bandits positioned on the road. Emmanuel Biira, one of the escapees, disclosed that more than three individuals were taken from the taxi he boarded.
Describing the incident, Biira explained, “The incident began when our vehicle ran into an ambush near the airport junction roundabout as we were heading to Obi Ikwerre flyover. We encountered an ambush with eight to 10 cars. As we approached the scene, the kidnappers began shooting randomly into the air.”
He further recounted the chaotic scene, revealing that occupants of other vehicles attempting to escape were shot at and forcibly taken away. Biira managed to escape by hiding under a car during the chaos, crediting his survival to divine intervention.
“If one of the stray bullets had hit me, my wife would have been a young widow, and my children fatherless. I am immensely grateful to God alone. Thank you, Jesus Christ,” expressed the relieved escapee.
