Gunmen kill inspector in fresh Rivers ambush
The Rivers State Police Command reported that gunmen ambushed and attacked officers on stop-and-search duty at the Eliozu flyover in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of the state on Wednesday night, resulting in the death of an Inspector.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state police command, revealed this in a statement issued on Thursday.
According to Iringe-Koko, the assailants, traveling in a carton-colored Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses, approached from the Rumuodumaya area near Port Harcourt, launching the offensive that led to the officer’s demise.
Despite the attack, the officers retaliated, exchanging fire and neutralizing one of the assailants who wore a mask, while the rest escaped.
The statement conveyed, “On the 21st of February 2024, a tragic incident occurred involving an attack on policemen from Operation Sting of the Rivers State Police Command.
"At approximately 9:45 pm, while conducting routine stop-and-search at Eliozu flyover, the officers were ambushed by unidentified hoodlums operating in a carton-colored Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses. The registration number of the vehicle remains unknown at this time.
"The assailants, coming from the Rumuodumaya axis, opened fire on the police team, resulting in the tragic loss of one Inspector who bravely sacrificed his life in the line of duty. Undeterred, the police team responded with bravery, engaging the attackers and managing to neutralize one of them wearing a mask, while the others managed to escape, possibly sustaining gunshot wounds.
"The Command has launched a thorough investigation into this despicable act and has already identified the group responsible. Rest assured, we will relentlessly pursue these criminals and bring them to justice. No amount of intimidation will hinder our officers’ unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of the citizens.”
Acknowledging the detrimental impact of such aggression against security forces on societal safety and security, Iringe-Koko emphasized the command's unwavering dedication to maintaining peace and protecting the populace.
Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, reiterated unequivocally that perpetrators of violence against policemen or any citizen will face the full weight of the law.
The statement urged all law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without panic, reassuring them of the command's determination to preserve lives and property despite such challenges.
The command extended its deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen inspector, assuring them that his sacrifice would not be in vain, reaffirming their resolve to serve and protect the community against disruptors of peace and harmony.
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