The Rivers State Police Command has condemned the killing of the Omoku Zonal Commander of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Council Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha, and three women in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Council of Rivers State, assuring residents that those responsible will be tracked down and prosecuted.

The attack occurred at about 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday along Oba Road, where the slain commander was reportedly relaxing near his residence with his sister and her friend when suspected gunmen opened fire on them.

OSPAC spokesperson, Nkem Godknows, said the commander and three women were killed in the attack, while two other persons sustained gunshot injuries and are receiving treatment in hospital.

The Rivers State Police Command, in a statement by its spokesperson, ASP Grace Iringe-Koko, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, described the attack as “gruesome, unfortunate and disturbing,” noting that it threatens the relative peace being enjoyed in the state.

The police confirmed that one OSPAC official and three other persons were killed in the attack, while another victim, identified as Obidi Emenike, sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

“The Command condemns this heinous act in its entirety and assures the public that those responsible will be identified, arrested and made to face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.

The Commissioner urged all community-based security groups and local vigilante outfits across the state to work closely with the Police Command under the supervision of their respective Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders to strengthen security and improve operational coordination.

The Command also appealed to residents to remain calm and support ongoing investigations by providing credible and timely information, assuring that all information received would be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

Godknows also appealed to residents of Omoku to remain peaceful and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions, while calling on the Rivers State Government and well-meaning individuals to provide greater welfare and operational support for OSPAC personnel.

Security sources said calm has since returned to Omoku, with combined teams of security operatives conducting intensive visibility patrols across the area to reassure residents and maintain law and order as investigations continue. (The Guardian)