THE Rivers State Police Command has recently initiated a crackdown on the activities of Vigilante Groups within the State, specifically targeting the ONELGA Security and Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC).
The police command revealed that there have been numerous complaints regarding the actions of OSPAC, particularly in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area.
With reports indicating clashes between OSPAC and other Security Agencies, prompting intervention from law enforcement.
The Chairman of the Hausa Indigenous Group in ONELGA, Alhaji Usman Seleh, had reportedly raised concerns of OSPAC allegedly abducting a group member, leading to a formal complaint to the Police.
Subsequently, the Police summoned OSPAC Commander Felix Nwaobakata, who evaded several invitations.
In a turn of events, OSPAC orchestrated an attack on the Omoku Police Division, only to be repelled by law enforcement.
Following the incident, Tactical Units of the Police Command raided the ONELGA OSPAC Camp, apprehending several individuals including Commander Felix Nwaobakata, who was found in possession of human remains.
Nwaobakata is also a suspect in the murder of two brothers from Idu Community, who were accused of being kidnappers by OSPAC.
In a separate incident, Egbeda Community Youth staged a peaceful protest before being ambushed by OSPAC members led by Commander Friday Ogbuji, resulting in the tragic death of Youth Leader Innocent Didia.
The Police have since made additional arrests and are pursuing investigations into these cases.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Cp Olatunji Disu, urged residents to report any acts of assault, extortion, or illegal detention to the authorities.
The Police Command emphasized its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights, while warning against unlawful activities by vigilante groups.
While acknowledging the value of vigilante groups in community policing, the Command stresses the importance of operating within legal boundaries.