Police Arrest Five Rivers Community Leaders in Connection with Alleged Criminal Activities

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Police Command has taken into custody five individuals in Sii Community, Khana Local Government Area, following allegations of intimidation and ritual‑related activities in the area.

The arrested persons are Chief Benedict Naalor Deezim, Nuadum Dorka Etukere, Samuel Neekia Deewii, Cletus Nuadum Kanee, and Dr. Lekia Nwiko.

They were apprehended on Thursday after intelligence was gathered and directives were issued by the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 16, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The arrests came after a legal petition was submitted to the AIG. The petition, signed by Barry Kumbe & Co., legal practitioners and arbitrators, accuses the suspects of unlawful ritual practices, intimidation, and acts that could incite panic within the community.

Filed on March 10, 2025, the petition was made on behalf of Mr. Fortune L. Diginee and Hon. Barigbor N. Kenneth, both natives of Sii Community.

The petition alleges that certain community leaders and youths were involved in the illicit planting of charms, intimidation, and activities linked to mysterious deaths in the area.

Chief Benedict Naalor Deezim, the acting Paramount Ruler of Sii Town, is specifically named in the petition along with other community stakeholders.

The solicitors stated that these alleged acts have created fear and tension among residents and called on the police to intervene to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

State Police Public Relations Officer Blessing Agabe confirmed that the command was aware of the situation and had begun an investigation.

She noted that one of the suspects has already been charged and is being held in custody.

“The person that was arrested on that issue is part of the matter. He has been charged to court and is currently in prison,” she said.

When asked whether the arrests would deter others, the spokesperson said that while communities have diverse traditions and cultural practices, the police will intervene whenever criminal allegations are substantiated.

She added that the police can mediate in civil matters when necessary but will enforce the law when criminal intent is established.

Agabe emphasized that the command is closely monitoring the situation and is working to maintain peace in the community.

She urged community leaders to refrain from actions that could cause confusion, panic, or crisis in the area.