Unidentified gunmen shot and killed a man, identified only as Mr Kine, along Polytechnic Road in Bori, Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State, at approximately 6 p.m. on Sunday. The assailants fled before security operatives arrived, and the victim's body has been deposited in a mortuary pending an autopsy, the police said.
Police Confirm Incident and Launch Investigation
Blessing Agabe, the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson and an Assistant Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday. She stated that the command has launched a full investigation to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. “The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full investigation to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice,” she said.
Ms Agabe urged Mr Kine’s family to formally report the incident to the police to assist with investigations and the administration of justice. “Reporting the matter to the police will aid ongoing investigations and facilitate the prompt administration of justice,” she added. She reaffirmed the command’s commitment to identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all those connected with the killing.
Local Government Chairman Condemns Attack
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government, Thomas Bariere, condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence.” Mr Bariere described Mr Kine’s murder as “heartbreaking,” stating that such violence has no place in a peaceful, law-abiding society. He expressed concern that the killing occurred only weeks after the murder of Clement Deegbara of Kpong Community.
“The repeated attacks suggest the activities of armed criminal gangs determined to undermine peace and security in Khana LGA,” he said. The chairman called on security agencies to intensify operations across Khana and to swiftly apprehend those responsible for the attacks. He urged that all suspects found culpable be prosecuted, while extending his condolences to Mr Kine’s family.
Security Concerns in Khana LGA
Mr Bariere prayed for strength for the bereaved family to cope with the tragedy and urged residents to remain calm. He also called on the public to remain vigilant and to provide security agencies with timely and credible information. The chairman reaffirmed that protecting lives and property remains a top priority for his administration.
The killing of Mr Kine has heightened tensions in the area, coming shortly after the murder of Clement Deegbara. Residents have expressed fear over the apparent resurgence of armed violence in the region. The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that efforts are being made to track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.
