Residents of Bori, the headquarters of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, were thrown into panic on Sunday evening after unknown gunmen shot and killed a former Chief Security Officer of the local government council, Mr. Letam Kine.
The incident, which occurred along Polytechnic Road in Bori, sent residents, motorists and traders scampering for safety as sustained gunfire echoed through the area.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants ambushed the victim and opened fire at close range, leaving him with multiple gunshot wounds before fleeing the scene through nearby bushes. The attackers reportedly escaped before security operatives could arrive.
The brazen attack caused widespread fear in the community, with many residents abandoning their businesses and running for cover after hearing the first round of gunshots.
An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the victim’s lifeless body was discovered moments after the gunmen fled.
“The gunshots were so loud that everyone started running. People thought there was a clash. After the shooting stopped, we came out cautiously and saw the man lying in a pool of blood,” the witness said.
Although the motive behind the killing has yet to be officially established, some residents alleged that the attack may be linked to cult-related activities, which have remained a recurring security challenge in parts of Ogoniland and other communities in Rivers State. However, security agencies have not confirmed the speculation.
The killing has heightened tension in Bori, with residents calling on the Rivers State Police Command and other security agencies to intensify patrols and ensure that those responsible are apprehended and brought to justice.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the resurgence of violent crimes and targeted killings in parts of Rivers State, where security experts have repeatedly urged authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and community policing to curb criminal activities.
As of the time of filing this report, the Rivers State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident or confirm whether any arrests had been made in connection with the killing.
Residents have appealed for calm while urging security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the murder and prevent further attacks in the area.
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