The Rivers State Police Command reported that on Wednesday night, gunmen ambushed and attacked police officers who were conducting a stop and search duty at the Eliozu Flyover in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of the state. As a result, an Inspector lost his life during the assault.
According to the spokesperson of the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, the gunmen arrived in a carton-colored Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses from the Rumuodumaya axis near Port Harcourt. The police team retaliated by returning fire, resulting in the neutralization of one of the attackers who wore a mask, while the others managed to escape.
The statement issued by the command expressed deep sadness over the incident and assured that a thorough investigation has been launched to identify and bring the culprits to justice. The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to safeguarding citizens’ lives and property despite such challenges.
The command acknowledged the detrimental impact of such acts of aggression against security forces on the safety and security of society. It urged law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without fear, emphasizing the resolute commitment to maintaining peace and protecting the well-being of the populace.
Furthermore, the command extended its condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen inspector and reaffirmed its dedication to serving and protecting the society against those seeking to disrupt its peace and harmony.
In a related development, the command disclosed that intelligence reports revealed the recent joint security raid resulting in the killing of a wanted cult kingpin in the Idu-Ekpeye community, Ahiada East LGA.