Gunmen have killed a police officer at Eliozu flyover in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of Rivers State.

It was gathered that the gunmen attacked the police officers conducting a stop and search operation at Eliozu flyover and killed one officer in the process.

Confirming the incident via a statement issued on Friday, February 23, 2024, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, condemned the attack, describing it as senseless.

Iringe-Koko revealed that one of the assailants was killed during the ensuing exchange of gunfire.

She stated: “The sad incident occurred at about 9:45 p.m. on February 21 when unidentified hoodlums targeted policemen from Operation Sting of the Rivers State Police Command.

“While the officers were carrying out stop and search at Eliozu flyover, they were attacked by the hoodlums travelling in a carton-coloured, glass-tinted Sienna bus.

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“The vehicle’s registration number remains unknown at this time.”

Iringe-Koko said the gunmen fired directly at the unsuspecting officers without any provocation.

The police spokesperson added: “The attackers, arriving from the Rumuodumaya axis, opened fire on the police team, resulting in the tragic loss of one Inspector who valiantly sacrificed his life in the line of duty.

“Undeterred, the police team responded bravely, engaged the attackers, and managed to neutralize one of them who was wearing a mask.

“Unfortunately, the others managed to escape, but potentially sustaining gunshot wounds.”

Iringe-Koko stated that the command has initiated an investigation to apprehend the culprits, noting that the criminal gang responsible for the attack has already been identified.

She affirmed that the police force would not relent until everyone involved in the despicable act was brought to justice.

She said: “The Commissioner of Police in Rivers, CP Olatunji Disu, has pledged that those who perpetrate violence against law enforcement and civilians will face the full weight of the law.

“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.”

The police spokesperson, therefore, enjoined the people of Rivers State to continue their lawful activities without fear, stressing that the command would enhance its strategies to ensure their protection.

The Star