Police arrest 16 suspects in connection to murder of inspector

Tamarauemi Ebimini

The Rivers State Police Command said its officers have arrested 16 persons in connection with the tragic death of its officer identified as Inspector Christiana Erekere, who was murdered in the line of duty on April 25, 2024, at approximately 4:00 pm.

The command in a statement by its Spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said preliminary investigations showed the incident occurred when a group of individuals traveling in a Lexus salon car was stopped for routine checks at the checkpoint in front of Bori Police Station in Khana Local Government Area of the state

Iringe-Koko said the occupants became agitated and proceeded to barricade the road, obstructing the movement of other vehicles.

She said that after completing the necessary checks, the police officers requested that the individuals leave the scene.

“Unfortunately, they refused, alleging that Inspector Erekere had recorded a video of their disruptive behavior using her mobile phone,” Iringe-Koko said.

“In their attempt to seize Inspector Erekere’s phone forcefully, they launched a violent attack against her, striking her with stones.

“The severity of the assault caused Inspector Erekere to lose consciousness, and she was immediately transported to Nnadum Hospital in Bori. Regrettably, she succumbed to the injuries sustained during the attack.”

She added that the Rivers State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into the incident, stating that all individuals involved will be apprehended and brought to justice.

She also noted that the Command had extended its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased colleague, saying the remains of the Inspector have been transferred to the mortuary pending an autopsy.

“The Rivers State Police Command deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly apprehended and held accountable for their actions.”