Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the gruesome killing of the Zonal Commander of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC) and three others in Omoku town, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government area of the State.
It was gathered that the vigilante commander, Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha was attacked by yet to be identified gunmen, Tuesday evening, while he was relaxing with his sister and her friend near his residence in Omoku.
The incident, it was learnt threw the community into panic as many businesses and markets were forced to shut down, while some people fled to Obrikom, a neighbouring community, in fear of further violence or reprisal.
The Public Relations Officer of OSPAC in Rivers State, Nkem Godknows, who confirmed the incident earlier, revealed that three other women who were hit by bullets died at the scene, while two other victims sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
The OSPAC spokesperson said, “The incident happened a few minutes after 5pm. Our commander was with his sister and her friend, seated around his neighbourhood, when unknown gunmen approached and shot him dead.
“Three women died on the spot, while two other victims sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at the hospital. The police were immediately informed, and we reported the incident without delay.”
He appealed to the people of Omoku to remain calm and be peaceful, saying that “Nobody should panic. By the grace of God, OSPAC, alongside other security agencies, will get to the root of this matter.
“I also appeal to the government and well-meaning individuals to come to the aid of OSPAC. We are not adequately taken care of. We are not paid, and we have no reliable source of income. We have little or no support or encouragement. I am calling on the general public to support OSPAC.”
Meanwhile, in a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, yesterday, confirmed that four persons lost their lives in the attack.
The Police spokesperson who further disclosed that one of the victims of the bullet attack is presently receiving treatment in an undisclosed medical facility, revealed that investigation has been launched to apprehend the suspects.
However, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has described the incident as unfortunate, disturbing and a threat to the relative peace currently being enjoyed in Rivers State.
Adepoju condemned the heinous act in its entirety and assured the public that those responsible will be identified, arrested, and made to face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner of Police further enjoins all community-based security groups and local vigilante outfits across the State to work in close collaboration with the Rivers State Police Command under the supervision of their respective Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders.
He said “This collaboration is essential to ensure proper coordination, enhance operational effectiveness and prevent members of such groups from becoming targets of criminal elements while carrying out their lawful responsibilities”.
The Command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with the Police by providing credible and timely information that will assist ongoing investigations.
Blessing Ibunge
