Rivers Police arrest Goodnews Iberi in kidnapping and murder of Rita Eleonu, recover victim’s remains, and pursue remaining accomplices

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested 26-year-old Goodnews Iberi in connection with the kidnapping and murder of 25-year-old Rita Eleonu along the Emuoha axis of the East-West Road.

Also read: Rivers APC Blocks Impeachment: Governor Fubara’s Leadership Protected

The operation followed an intelligence-led investigation by the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU) in Emohua.

According to Police Spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, Iberi and four accomplices lured Eleonu on 13 December 2025 and took her to a forest in Emuoha, where they demanded a ransom of ₦210,000 from her family.

The suspects subsequently killed the victim for suspected ritual purposes and buried her in a shallow grave.

Iberi led operatives to the site, where the remains were exhumed and deposited at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) morgue.

“Iberi voluntarily confessed to the crime and incriminated four other suspects, who remain at large,” Iringe-Koko said.

Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju commended the swift response of the operatives and urged residents to support investigations by providing credible intelligence.

“Criminals should know that the Rivers State Police Command remains committed to combating crime in all its forms,” he said.

Adepoju assured that identities of informants would be protected.

Iberi remains in police custody as a detailed investigation continues.

Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate.

Also read: Rivers Police Arrest Two Suspects Over Eleto Murder

The incident follows a recent arrest in Anambra State, where 26-year-old Chibuike Anikpe was detained over the murder of his girlfriend, highlighting ongoing efforts by Nigerian police commands to tackle violent crimes.