The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday condemned the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State.
Supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, which unfortunately led to the tragic deaths of a Police Officer, Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma Local Government Area of the state.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) said in response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.
“The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.
“The IGP seriously warns individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them,” the statement said.
It added that the CP has been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents, noting that the IGP extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member.
He noted that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty would not be taken for granted, calling on all residents and political stakeholders in the state to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.
