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ITODE AKARI The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 46-year-old man, Abi Baragon, for allegedly assaulting his lover in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, an incident that sparked outrage after a viral video of the attack circulated online.

The disturbing footage, recorded on June 20, 2025, showed a distraught woman accusing Baragon of physically attacking her before he fled the scene.

The video triggered widespread condemnation and an immediate response from the state police authorities.

According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the state Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko on Friday, officers attached to the Human Rights Department at the State Headquarters, Moscow Road, launched a swift investigation following reports of the assault.

Acting on intelligence and with technical support, operatives tracked down and arrested Baragon on October 13, 2025.

Iringe-Koko further disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the assault allegedly stemmed from the woman’s refusal to marry Baragon after discovering he was already married with four children, a fact he initially denied.

The police spokesperson revealed that during interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to attacking the victim and admitted using bottles during the violent confrontation.

Police sources confirmed that the victim is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt, while Baragon remains in custody.

Consequently, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, has praised the operatives for their professionalism, thanking members of the public for providing actionable intelligence that led to the arrest.

“If anyone commits a crime and runs away, the Police will catch up with you. There is no hiding place for the wicked,” CP Adepoju assured.

Police spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, assuring that justice will be served.