A group of 12 individuals, suspected to be engaged in internet fraud, have been apprehended by the Nigeria Police, PHALGA security, and Rivers State Neighbourhood Watch.
The arrests were made in connection with an incident involving the alleged burial of a newborn baby alive in Rivers State.
According to sources, more than 20 youths, believed to be linked to online fraud activities, congregated at Andoni Water on Eagle Island during the early hours of the preceding day. Allegedly, these individuals performed ritualistic acts along the riverfront.
Local residents in the vicinity became aware of the occult-like activity carried out by the suspects and promptly reported their concerns to the local vigilante group responsible for safeguarding the area, known as PHALGA security.
This group, alongside the State’s Neighbourhood Watch and law enforcement officers from Azikiwe Police Division, responded swiftly. They managed to track down and apprehend around 12 of the suspects, who were located in a hotel in the vicinity shortly after they had left the scene.
Victor Ohaji, also known as “Man of God,” the Chairman of PHALGA Security, stated that the vigilante group received credible information about the alleged incantations performed by “yahoo yahoo” boys at the waterfront. Acting on this information, his team immediately intervened.
Upon their arrival, a specific area that had been dug and subsequently concealed caught their attention. Upon unearthing the area, they discovered the body of a deceased baby boy. Ohaji conveyed, “It was a baby boy. A very handsome boy. I have to call the Station Officer of Eagle Island immediately, to inform him. He in turn called the DPO in charge of the area. We all went in search of the boys behind the act.”
Ohaji disclosed that the suspects were ultimately apprehended after being spotted leaving a hotel. “A pursuit ensued involving the vigilante group, local law enforcement, and the Neighbourhood Watch. The suspects were apprehended, and the deceased baby was taken to the police station as evidence.”
Ohaji urged the Rivers State Government to provide logistical support, particularly operational vehicles, to enhance the vigilante group’s capacity to maintain security in the area effectively.
Condemnation for the appalling act came from Prince Wiro, a Human Rights Advocate and National Coordinator of the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign.
Wiro described the incident as a disturbing manifestation of cruelty and inhumanity. He lauded the swift response of security operatives and called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of the suspected fraudsters involved in the alleged burial of the newborn.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, affirmed that the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a thorough investigation.
Iringe-Koko emphasized that justice will prevail following a comprehensive inquiry. If proven guilty, the suspects will face legal consequences in a court of law.
