Crime
Gunmen kill two security operatives in Rivers state Ambush
“This latest act of violence adds to growing security concerns in the Niger Delta, where gunmen, cultists, and oil thieves continue to pose threats.”
Two security operatives were tragically killed in an ambush by unidentified gunmen on the evening of Monday, June 23, 2025, near the Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident, which occurred during a routine patrol, has intensified calls for increased security measures in the volatile Niger Delta region.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the deadly attack. According to police and local sources, the deceased include Corporal Friday Francis, an operative of the State Intelligence Service (SIS) and Special Intervention Squad (SIS), and Ngozi Ipah, a member of the local vigilante group, Onelga Security Peace and Advisory Committee (OSPAC).
They were reportedly caught in a hail of gunfire near the Ahoada East Council Secretariat.
Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, condemned the brutal attack and confirmed that a massive manhunt has been launched for the perpetrators.
“We have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. This attack is a serious affront to law enforcement, and we will ensure justice is served,” she stated, adding that the command is determined to dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.
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Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots around 9:00 PM on Monday, causing widespread panic and forcing residents to seek cover.
The assailants reportedly fled the scene before the arrival of additional security forces.
While no group has yet claimed responsibility for the ambush, investigators believe the incident may be linked to ongoing cult-related violence that has plagued parts of Ahoada East and other local government areas in Rivers State.
The attack comes barely a week after an incident where the Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Council, Mr. Goodluck Iheanacho, was reportedly assaulted and forced to sign a resignation letter by a group of youths.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, visited the scene of the latest ambush on Tuesday, expressing regret over the loss of the operatives and charging his teams to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible.
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