In a shocking turn of events, a Dutch expatriate, Mr. Gibson Reuben, tragically drowned in Rivers State after his vehicle plunged into the Aleto River in Eleme Local Government Area. Reuben, the Managing Director and CEO of Rivers State Cassava Project Limited, was attempting to escape suspected kidnappers when the incident occurred on Monday night.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed Reuben’s identity, and authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the disturbing incident. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Grace Iringe-Koko disclosed that the state’s Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, visited the site of the accident in the company of officers from the Eleme Area Command and tactical teams.
Iringe-Koko, in a statement released to the public, condemned the attack, calling it “barbaric” and underscoring the police’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“This incident is deeply troubling, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, has vowed to ensure that those responsible are arrested immediately,” said Iringe-Koko. “We appeal to the residents of Rivers State to come forward with any information that could aid in the swift apprehension of the culprits.”
A Desperate Attempt to Escape
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Reuben’s vehicle veered off the Aleto bridge after a violent confrontation with suspected kidnappers. Witnesses reported that as the expatriate’s car was being intercepted by the assailants, he made a desperate attempt to flee the scene, only for his vehicle to crash into the river.
Local rescue teams responded quickly, but despite efforts to locate Reuben’s body, the police confirmed his tragic death shortly after the accident. The exact circumstances surrounding his attempted escape remain under investigation, though it is believed that the kidnappers’ actions played a significant role in the fatal crash.
The Police Response
Upon arriving at the scene, Commissioner Olugbenga Adepoju expressed his anger and disappointment, strongly condemning the actions of the criminals. He reassured the public that the police would not rest until those responsible for the incident were found and brought to justice.
“The attack on Mr. Reuben is a direct assault on the safety and security of every individual in Rivers State. It is unacceptable,” CP Adepoju said during a brief address at the site. “We will ensure that the full force of the law is brought down on those responsible.”
The Commissioner’s swift action and presence at the scene were seen as a strong signal that law enforcement is prioritizing security in the region, which has been troubled by a surge in kidnapping cases in recent years.
Rivers State Grapples with Rising Kidnapping Incidents
The incident involving Mr. Reuben is part of a troubling pattern in Rivers State, where kidnapping has become a prevalent crime. In 2024 alone, multiple kidnapping attempts have rocked the state, with both locals and expatriates being targeted.
Local authorities have taken steps to combat the rising wave of crime, including increasing security patrols and enforcing stricter penalties for kidnappers. However, many residents and business owners have expressed concern that the police are not doing enough to curtail these brazen acts of violence.
“This is not the first time such an attack has happened in this area,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “Kidnappers are getting bolder, and it feels like we are under siege. The police must do more to protect us.”
The police, on their part, have intensified efforts to combat the criminal syndicates operating in the region, with special units tasked with investigating these kidnappings. However, the scale of the problem continues to challenge the law enforcement agencies, especially given the heavily armed nature of the kidnappers.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
The Rivers State Police Command is now calling on the public to cooperate in their investigation. In her statement, PPRO Grace Iringe-Koko urged anyone with credible information about the suspects to come forward, emphasizing that anonymous tips would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
“We are urging the good people of Rivers State to report any suspicious activities they may have witnessed in the area,” Iringe-Koko said. “Together, we can ensure that justice is served for Mr. Reuben and that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice.”
This plea for public involvement highlights the crucial role that local communities play in curbing crime and assisting law enforcement in their efforts to maintain order.
