Tension has gripped Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State following a deadly attack by suspected cultists that claimed the lives of a police officer and a local vigilante operative on Monday night.
The attack, which occurred near the council secretariat, triggered panic across surrounding communities as sustained gunfire echoed throughout the area.
Details of the Attack
According to a statement released by the Rivers State Police Command on Tuesday, the assailants were allegedly led by two individuals identified as Umegbewe Kingsley, also known as 'Gutam', and another suspect identified only as Opaka. Both men are reportedly leaders of the notorious Iceland cult group.
The cultists stormed the OSPAC (local vigilante) office adjacent to the Ahoada East Council Secretariat and opened fire on security operatives stationed there. During the attack, an OSPAC operative identified as Ngozi Ipah was shot, while Corporal Francis Friday, a police officer on special duty at the council secretariat as part of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), was also killed.
"Responding swiftly, Police patrol teams led by the Divisional Police Officer arrived at the scene, but the attackers had already fled," the police statement read. "Both victims were rushed to the Ahoada East General Hospital with multiple gunshot wounds but were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies have been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy."
Recent Tensions in the Area
This deadly incident comes just days after the Sole Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Area was reportedly attacked by local youths and allegedly forced to sign a resignation letter—a document he has since disavowed.
The escalating violence has raised concerns about security in the area, which has witnessed increasing cult-related activities in recent months.
Police Response
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has visited the scene of the attack and deployed tactical teams to the area. He has directed the Area Commander and Divisional Police Officer to intensify efforts to track down and arrest the perpetrators.
"The CP has vowed that the killers of the police officer and the OSPAC operative will not escape justice," the statement added.
The Command has urged residents to remain calm and cooperative by reporting any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station.
As investigations continue, security has been beefed up around the local government area to prevent further attacks and restore peace to the troubled community.
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