The police command in Rivers State reported that gunmen ambushed and attacked its officers during a 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.

The spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, revealed this in a statement released on Thursday.

Iringe-Koko stated that the gunmen, who were seen in a carton-colored Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses, arrived from the Rumuodumaya axis, near Port Harcourt, where they carried out the attack that resulted in the officer’s death.

She added that men of the command neutralized one of the assailants who was wearing a mask, as other members of the gang espaced.

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.”

She also stated that the force will not deter in its commitment to maintaining peace and safeguarding the well-being of the populace.

“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.”

Vanguard News