Shocking Murder in Bori
Gunmen believed to be cultists have shot dead Mr Letam Kine, the former Chief Security Officer of Bori, the headquarters of Khana Local Government Area in Rivers State. The attack occurred on Sunday evening, July 26, 2026, along Polytechnic Road in Bori, a bustling area that hosts the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants opened fire on the victim and then fled into nearby bushes, leaving the community in a state of shock. The sound of gunshots sent residents and passers-by scrambling for safety, and the lifeless body of Kine was later discovered at the scene.
Eyewitness Account
An eyewitness, who spoke to Punch on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the incident, described the immediate aftermath. 'As a result of the incident, social and business activities were immediately halted, with shop owners hurriedly closing their businesses,' the source said. 'As I speak with you, activities have resumed, unlike last night, but people, especially students, are still afraid over the killing, which many said was carried out by cultists. Police came, but it was too late because the assailants had fled the scene.'
The area, which is home to Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic—named after the late playwright and environmental activist—has a large student population that contributes significantly to the Ogoni community's vibrancy. The killing has heightened fears among students and locals alike.
Official Condemnation
The Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr Thomas Bariere, condemned the killing in the strongest terms, describing it as a senseless act of violence. In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Communications in Khana LGA, Barry Neemana, Bariere expressed his heartfelt sorrow over the murder of Kine, also known as Langa.
'The Executive Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Chief Dr Thomas Bariere, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Mr Letam Kine, also known as Langa, by yet-to-be-identified gunmen,' the statement read. 'This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence. Such criminality has no place in a peaceful and law-abiding society.'
Bariere noted with deep concern that Kine's murder comes barely weeks after the tragic killing of Mr Clement Deegbara J. of Kpong Community, suggesting a pattern of attacks by armed criminal gangs seeking to undermine peace and security in Khana.
Call for Justice
The council chairman called on all security agencies to intensify their operations across the Local Government Area and ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. He urged law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation into Kine's murder, arrest all connected individuals, and ensure they face the full weight of the law.
While condoling with Kine's family, Bariere reiterated his administration's unwavering commitment to ensuring justice is served and that every lawful measure is taken to safeguard the lives of the people of Khana. The community remains on edge as police continue their search for the assailants.
