Thirteen people have been arrested in Rivers State after a broadcast journalist was attacked while filming in an area known for criminal activity, police said on Monday.
The Rivers State Police Command said it launched an investigation after reports emerged online that journalist Allwell Ene had been assaulted.
Commissioner of Police Olugenga Adepoju invited Ene to give a first-hand account as officers began inquiries.
Police said Ene was carrying out a solo investigation in a "black spot" routinely raided by officers when he was set upon by suspected hoodlums.
He was attacked for recording video in the area, according to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Blessing Agabe.
Operatives from the Olu-Obasanjo Division were sent to the scene and rescued the journalist.
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"Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, Olugenga Adepoju, promptly took decisive action by inviting the journalist to provide a firsthand account, while a comprehensive investigation into the matter commenced.
"The facts available indicate that one journalist, Mr. Allwell Ene, while conducting a solo investigative activity in an area marked as a black spot, known for criminal activities and constantly raided by police, was attacked and physically assaulted by suspected hoodlums for video recording them," part of the statement read.
Follow-up raids in the Olu-Obasanjo axis and surrounding areas led to the arrest of 13 suspects.
Police believe those held are linked to phone theft, public harassment, and other offences.
Adepoju urged journalists and private investigators to avoid working alone in high-risk areas and to liaise with police before carrying out such assignments.
He also called on the public to share credible information with security agencies.
The command said it remains committed to protecting lives and property and to removing criminal elements across the state.
Investigations are ongoing.
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