The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the murder of an ushering manager, popularly known as ‘Special,’ by yet-to-be-identified gunmen in Port Harcourt.

It was gathered that the victim, in the company of her friend, Miss Divine Anyanwu, was on a Bolt ride to an event centre along Odili Road when the incident occurred.

According to the police, the lady, who organised ushers for events, may have been trailed by the gunmen, who were in a tricycle from the hotel where the Bolt driver picked them up. The assailants reportedly opened fire along Odili Road.

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Thursday and sent to newsmen.

Iringe-Koko explained that the incident, which occurred on March 21, was reported to the police by the victim’s friend, who was with her in the same vehicle.

The statement reads: “The Rivers State Police Command is investigating the gruesome murder that occurred in Port Harcourt. On 21st March 2026 at about 4:30 PM, reported by one Miss Divine Anyanwu of No. 9 Aliobi Drive, Elimgbu, Port Harcourt, at the Abuloma Police Division on 19th March 2026 at about 7:00 PM, she and her friend, identified simply as one Special Bensington, boarded a Bolt ride from a hotel located on Emmanuel Road, off Odili Road, Port Harcourt.

“While en route along the Total Gospel area, off Odili Road, they were reportedly attacked by unknown armed hoodlums suspected to have trailed them from the hotel. The assailants, who were operating a tricycle, opened fire on the victims. In the course of the attack, the said victim sustained gunshot injuries.

“The victim was immediately rushed to BMH Hospital, Port Harcourt, where she was later confirmed dead by a medical doctor on duty while receiving treatment.

“Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Abuloma Division, alongside his team, visited both the scene of the incident and the hospital. The deceased has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.”

She added: “The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet forensic investigation. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

“The Command strongly condemns this gruesome act and assures the public that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to justice.”

Iringe-Koko urged members of the public with useful information to come forward or contact dedicated police phone lines, or report to the nearest police station.

“The Command further assures residents that updates concerning the incident will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement added. (The PUNCH)

Update news