In a decisive move to curb criminal activities in Rivers State, the police have neutralized a notorious kidnap kingpin and cult leader, Nkem ThankGod, infamously known as "General 2man." This operation marks a significant milestone in the state's fight against organized crime.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mustapha Mohammed Bala, revealed on Thursday that the 42-year-old suspect, a native of Ogbologbolo Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area, had long held the region in a grip of fear. His criminal exploits included murder, kidnapping, robbery, and oil pipeline vandalism, leaving countless victims in his wake.
General 2man’s violent legacy spanned years. Among his most heinous acts were the murder of Christmas Ede, Youth President of Okogbe Community, in December 2021, and the gruesome killing of two police officers and three civilians, including Mr. and Mrs. Rex Kiriki and Mrs. Abigail Victor, in 2024, even after ransom payments were made. He was also implicated in the deaths of two Shell employees, whose vehicle he stole, and the fatal shooting of SP Bello during a police rescue operation in 2022.
His reign of terror extended into 2024 with multiple kidnappings, including the carjacking of a red Toyota Camry from one Dare Shola in October. His victims often faced extortion, and many were killed even after paying ransoms.
The end came for General 2man during an intelligence-driven operation while he was allegedly planning yet another abduction. Although some members of his gang managed to flee with injuries, police have assured the public that efforts to apprehend them are ongoing.
Recovered from the scene were an arsenal of deadly weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, five magazines, and 22 rounds of live ammunition, underscoring the dangerous nature of his criminal enterprise.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and security in the state. CP Bala assured residents that such criminal elements would not be allowed to thrive, stating, “This breakthrough sends a clear message that law enforcement remains steadfast in the fight against crime. No one is above the law.”
As the dust settles, communities across Rivers State breathe a sigh of relief, hopeful that the tide is turning against criminality in the region.
