Police arrest Rivers man for allegedly killing father over property dispute

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a man for allegedly killing his father during a dispute over family property in a community on the outskirts of Port Harcourt.

The incident, which has left residents in shock, reportedly occurred after a disagreement between the suspect and his elderly father over the ownership and sharing of family property escalated into violence.

According to preliminary reports, the argument turned deadly when the suspect allegedly attacked his father with a machete, inflicting fatal injuries.

Residents who heard the commotion rushed to the scene and alerted emergency responders, but the victim was confirmed dead before medical assistance could save him.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the suspect’s arrest, stating that officers intervened swiftly to prevent him from being attacked by an angry crowd.

Police spokesperson said the suspect is currently in custody while detectives investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“The suspect is in our custody, and a comprehensive investigation has commenced to determine the full facts of the case. The matter will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution,” the spokesperson said.

Police also confirmed that the suspected murder weapon has been recovered and will form part of the evidence in the investigation.

Family members and community leaders have condemned the killing, describing it as a tragic reminder of the growing violence linked to inheritance and land disputes. They called on law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is served.

The incident has also renewed concerns among civil society groups over the increasing number of family conflicts arising from property and inheritance disagreements, with advocates urging families to embrace dialogue and mediation rather than violence in resolving such disputes.