The Rivers State Police Command said an Inspector was killed by gunmen who ambushed and attacked its men on a stop-and-search duty at the Eliozu flyover in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of the state on Wednesday night.

Spokesperson for the state police command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday.

Iringe-Koko said the gunmen, who were spotted in a carton-coloured Sienna bus with fully tinted glasses, drove in from the Rumuodumaya area, near Port Harcourt where they launched the offensive which claimed the officer’s life.

She, however, said the operatives rose to the occasion and returned fire and neutralised one of the miscreants who wore mask, but that other gang members escaped by the whisker.

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, 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 with 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.”

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

According to the statement, “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.”