The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 51 suspected robbers in the State.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-koko said a combined team of security officials raided their hideout near a brothel along Azikiwe Street in Mile 2 area of Diobu, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
She said the police immediately swung into action after receiving a distress call that the hoodlums were robbing residents at gunpoint and carting away their mobile telephones and other valuables.
The police spokesperson said investigation into the incident is ongoing.
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Iringe-koko said following a distress call, a combined team of police and other operatives stormed the area and gave the hoodlums a hot chase.
She said, “We got information about a criminal hideout and that these boys were robbing people at gunpoint in that Azikiwe area.
“So, the joint patrol team quickly moved in and chased them. They ran into one hotel (a brothel). And that hotel is a black spot in that area.
“51 of them were apprehended. They are currently being profiled and helping the police with useful information that can give us a breakthrough.”
Asked if some of those arrested may not have been wrongly picked, she said the investigation was ongoing, saying, “Anyone found to be innocent will be released, while others will be charged in court.”
Iringe-koko, a superintendent of police, called on residents to feel free to volunteer useful information to the police that may lead to the arrest of criminal elements.