By Akpos Oje
The Rivers State Police Command has revealed that the recent surge in kidnappings along the state’s waterways is being driven by former illegal oil bunkerers who have resorted to abductions following intensified crackdowns on their activities.
Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, made this known during a security meeting with stakeholders from Bonny Local Government Area.
Representing the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), Adepoju stated that the disruption of illegal oil operations has forced many of the perpetrators to switch to kidnapping as an alternative means of income.
“With the reduction of illegal bunkering to the barest minimum, those who once thrived on oil theft have now diverted their criminal focus to kidnapping,” Adepoju said. “We are aware of this trend and have intensified our efforts to tackle it.”
He stressed the importance of community collaboration, urging residents to work with security forces by providing intelligence and guidance on local terrain to enhance operations.
Adepoju also highlighted recent achievements, including the arrest of a notorious kidnapping gang traced to Bayelsa State, and commended the King of Bonny for his continued support. He reiterated that security remains a shared responsibility that requires active community participation.
