The Zone 16 Police Command has apprehended three individuals suspected of engaging in drug-related offenses and fraudulent activities.
According to SP Gunn Emonena, spokesperson for the command, the arrests followed a targeted operation by the Zonal Financial and Cyber Crime Unit.
Acting on credible intelligence, officers raided Rumukparali Community in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of Rivers State, where the suspects were taken into custody.
The suspects, identified as Billion Ndubuisi, Charles Amachree, and Martins Chinemike, allegedly confessed to impersonating Ryam Bill, a U.S.-based legal professional, and defrauding two victims, St. Andrea and Charlen Zielinsky, of $71,500.
During a search of their premises, officers reportedly recovered illicit drugs suspected to be hemp, two vehicles, two laptops, and 10 mobile phones.
SP Emonena revealed that the suspects attempted to offer officers a $17,000 bribe through an intermediary, but the offer was rejected.
“The suspects through their agent offered the sum of 17,000 US Dollars bribe which was rejected by our well-trained reformed officers. The money is registered and will be tendered as exhibits in court,” he stated.
The Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Zone 16, Adebola Hamzat, reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the region.
He further noted that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, remains steadfast in its mission to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
The case is expected to proceed to court, with evidence, including the confiscated items and registered bribe money, presented as exhibits