Gunmen killed a police inspector along the Eliozu axis of the East-West Road in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Reports indicate that the gunmen, traveling in a Sienna bus, opened fire on police officers conducting a stop-and-search operation, resulting in the death of the inspector. SP. Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, February 22, condemning the senseless and unprovoked attack. Additionally, she disclosed that one of the attackers was killed during the ensuing exchange of gunfire.
“We are deeply saddened to report a heinous incident that occurred on 21st February 2024, involving an attack on policemen attached to Operation Sting of the Rivers State Police Command,” the statement read.
“At approximately 2145hrs, 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, driving in from the Rumuodumaya axis, opened fire on the police team, resulting in the tragic loss of one Inspector who valiantly gave 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.
The others, however, managed to escape, possibly sustaining gunshot wounds.”
“The Command has initiated a thorough investigation into this abhorrent act and has already identified the group responsible.
We assure you that we will relentlessly pursue these criminals and ensure they face justice.
Our officers remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens, undeterred by any form of intimidation.
“It is crucial to highlight that such acts of aggression against security forces have a detrimental impact on the safety and security of our entire society.
The Rivers State Police Command remains firm in its duty to uphold peace and safeguard the well-being of the populace.
“Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu psc, unequivocally reiterates that those who engage in violence against policemen or any citizen will be held accountable under the full extent of the law.
We urge all law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without fear, as we are committed to fulfilling our mandate of preserving lives and property despite these challenges.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen inspector, and assure them that his sacrifice will not be in vain.
Our determination to serve and protect remains unshaken as we unite against those who seek to disrupt the peace and harmony of our society.”
Accompanying this statement are photos of the gunman killed during the shootout…
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