Gunmen Ambush, kill Nigerian police inspector at a stop-and-search in Rivers State

 Thursday, February 22, 2024 - A Nigerian Police Inspector has been reportedly killed by gunmen at Eliozu Flyover in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of Rivers State.

It was learnt that the Inspector was killed by gunmen who ambushed and attacked policemen on a stop-and-search duty on Wednesday night.

The Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko made this known in a statement issued on Thursday, adding that the gunmen were spotted in a carton-coloured Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses.

She explained that the gunmen drove in from the Rumuodumaya axis, near Port Harcourt where they launched the offensive which claimed the officer’s life.

While noting that such acts of aggression against security forces detrimentally impact the safety and security of our entire society, she stressed that the command remains resolute in its duty to maintain peace and protect the well-being of the populace.

The statement reads, “We are deeply saddened to announce a heinous incident that occurred on 21st February 2024, involving an attack on policemen attached to Operation Sting of the Rivers State Police Command.

“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 drove in from the Rumuodumaya axis, and 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 neutralise one of them with a mask on his face, while the others managed to escape, potentially 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.

“The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, reiterates unequivocally that those who perpetrate violence against policemen or any citizen will face the full weight of the law.

“We urge all law-abiding citizens to continue with their daily activities without panic, as we are determined to uphold our mandate of preserving lives and property in the face of such challenges.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the fallen inspector, and we assure them that his sacrifice will not be in vain. Our resolve to serve and protect remains unwavering as we stand together against those who seek to disrupt the peace and harmony of our society.”