Policeman killed as gunmen open fire on checkpoint in Rivers

Gunmen killed a police officer while on duty at the checkpoint along Marine Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Friday when the gunmen in a Salon car who were driving past the checkpoint opened fire on the policemen, but the bullet only touched one of the cops.

According to PUNCH, a source in the area who pleaded anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the matter said the gunmen were coming from one of the adjourning streets before meeting the checkpoint.

She said,” I was sitting at my shop this morning attending to customers. Next thing people started running.

“There was shooting, but I don’t know who shot. Later, police operatives started gathering and the bad boys killed a policeman.”

The source further said the incident caused pandemonium as commuters, motorists and even traders scampered to safety.

The motive of the attack had yet to be established as of the time of filing this report.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident said operatives were on the trail of the fleeing suspects.

She however said the Commissioner of Police, CP Okon Effiong, had ordered for the immediate arrest of the gunmen.

Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, stated,” Yes, the command is aware and we have launched a search for the daredevil hoodlums to be apprehended and made to face the law.

“All tactical units and police divisions have also been alerted to be on the lookout. Calm has returned to Marine Base.”