The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, Otamiri Prince, over his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and sexual assault of a young woman.
Police said the suspect initially connected with the victim online before arranging a meeting. Upon arrival, she was reportedly lured to Igwuruta and later taken to a secluded area in a neighbouring community, where the crime was carried out.
The arrest followed a report made on April 11, 2026, prompting swift action by operatives. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend other suspects linked to the case.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, police spokesperson Blessing Agabe confirmed that the suspect would be prosecuted.
It partly reads, “The Rivers State Police Command has arrested one Otamiri Prince ‘M’, aged 24, in connection with a case of alleged kidnapping and rape.
“Following a report made on 11th April, 2026, by one Miss Thomas Alice (F), aged 24, of Eliozu, Port Harcourt, the victim alleged that she was kidnapped on 3rd January, 2026 by an individual she met online.
“According to her statement, she was lured to Igwuruta, from where she was subsequently taken by accomplices to a bush in Ulakwo, Etche Local Government Area, where she was assaulted, raped, and her valuables taken before she was later released.
“On receipt of the report, operatives of the command promptly commenced investigation, leveraging technology-driven strategies of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which aided the investigation and eventual arrest of the suspect, Otamiri Prince.
“The suspect confessed to the crime, and exhibits recovered from him include an iPhone, a wig suspected to belong to the victim and other valuables.”
“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang as investigation continues, after which the suspect(s) will be charged to court,” the spokesperson added.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju advised the public, especially women and job seekers, to be cautious when meeting individuals online and to prioritise safety at all times.
