Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have raided a black spot along the Olu-Obasanjo Axiz and adjoining areas of Port Harcourt, arresting 13 suspected criminals over an assault on a journalist Allwell Ene.
Ene was attacked while carrying out an investigative activity in an area already identified as a criminal hotspot.
The spokesperson for the command, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, May 4, 2026.
According to the PPRO, operatives carried out coordinated raids across the axis,and arrested the suspects.
“The Rivers State Police Command is aware of a publication currently circulating online regarding an alleged incident involving a journalist,” the statement read.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, promptly took decisive action by inviting the journalist to provide a firsthand account, while a comprehensive investigation into the matter commenced,he wrote.
“The facts available indicate that one journalist, Mr. Allwell Ene, while conducting a solo investigative activity in an area marked as black spot, known for criminal activities and constantly raided by police was attacked and physically assaulted by suspected hoodlums for video recording them.
“Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Olu-Obasanjo Division swiftly mobilised operatives to the scene to rescue the journalist.
“In line with the directive of the Commissioner of Police, operatives of the Command has been jointly carrying out coordinated operations within the Olu-Obasanjo axis and adjoining areas.
“Currently, a total of thirteen (13) suspects have been arrested. The suspects are believed to be involved in various criminal activities, including phone theft and the harassment of law-abiding members of the public. Investigations are ongoing and efforts are being intensified to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.
“The Commissioner of Police advises journalists and private investigators to refrain from undertaking investigative activities alone, particularly in high-risk or crime-prone areas.
“He strongly encourages collaboration with the Police and urges members of the public to always provide credible information to security agencies to enhance public safety and maintain law and order across Rivers State.
“The Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and assures the public of sustained efforts to eradicate criminal elements within the State.”
