Police Smash Gang Killing Uber Drivers to Steal Cars in Rivers

Matilda Omonaiye/

The police in Rivers State have smashed a gang that snatches Uber cars and kill the drivers. 

NewsmakersNG learnt that an investigation sparked by the disappearance of an Uber driver identified as Oghenevwarhe Akpobome, led to the arrest of a 35-year-old Anthony Chima, a political science graduate from the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

Chima’s confession to the police revealed that he was recruited into a gang that specialised in luring cab drivers into ambushes, stealing their vehicles, and ultimately murdering them for ritualistic purposes and organ harvesting.

Chima revealed that he was brought into the gang by a friend he disclosed as Amfoh Abu, who introduced him to the gang’s armourer, a man known as “Reason,” and the notorious ringleader, “General Effizy,” a prominent figure in a cult group and a seasoned kidnapper.

During the police interrogation on Akpobome’s death, Chima recounted the events of January 10, 2024.

He said: “On that fateful day, I was summoned to Reason’s residence and instructed to call a driver whose number I had previously collected. Posing as a passenger, I then lured the Uber driver to a remote area in Aminigboko, where I and Reason were met by General Effizy and four armed gang members.”

According to the suspect, the driver was forcibly removed from the vehicle and taken to Effizy’s shrine, where he was bound, gagged and ultimately murdered.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated: “Chima’s involvement in the gruesome act was confirmed when the police, following his confession, recovered the victim’s skull and a locally fabricated Beretta pistol from Effizy’s residence.

“This disturbing revelation has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting the Rivers State Police Commissioner, Tunji Disu, to advise both citizens and Uber drivers.

“He urged them to exercise caution when boarding or transporting passengers, especially to remote or potentially dangerous areas.

“Investigation is ongoing, with the authorities still searching for the fleeing suspects involved in this chilling criminal enterprise.”

She added that the case served as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows, and the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public in maintaining the safety of all citizens.

The police said that the suspect who is in their net would be charged to court immediately.

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