A female job seeker in Rivers State was allegedly kidnapped and assaulted after connecting with a man online, in a case that has renewed concerns about the risks associated with digital job searches.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of a 24-year-old suspect, Otamiri Prince, in connection with the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, Ms. Blessing Agabe, stated that the arrest followed a complaint received on 11 April 2026.
“Following a report made on 11th April, 2026, by Miss Thomas Alice (F), aged 24, of Eliozu, Port Harcourt, the victim alleged that she was kidnapped on 3rd January, 2026 by an individual she met online,” Agabe said.
According to the victim’s statement, she agreed to meet the suspect after their online interaction. She was reportedly lured to Igwuruta and subsequently taken by accomplices to a bush in Ulakwo, Etche Local Government Area, where she was assaulted and robbed before being released.
Agabe disclosed that police operatives promptly launched an investigation, deploying technology-driven strategies that led to the suspect’s arrest.
“The suspect confessed to the crime, and exhibits recovered from him include an iPhone, a wig suspected to belong to the victim, and other valuables,” she added.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang. The police confirmed that all suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Mr. Olugbenga Adepoju, has urged job seekers—particularly women—to exercise extreme caution when engaging with individuals met online, highlighting the growing intersection between digital platforms and employment-related risks.
