Travellers beat female inspector to death in Rivers

On April 25, a female police inspector, Christiana Erekere, was fatally attacked while on duty at the Bori Police Division in Rivers State.

The incident occurred in front of the Taabaa Police Station in the Khana local government area.

According to the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, a group of men in a private vehicle were stopped by police for a routine search. An argument ensued, and the occupants became agitated, blocking the road. The police have arrested at least 16 suspects in connection with the incident.

The statement reads, “The Rivers State Police Command announces the arrest of 16 persons in connection with the tragic death of Inspector Christiana Erekere, who was murdered in the line of duty on April 25, 2024, at approximately 4pm.

“According to preliminary investigations, the incident occurred when a group of individuals traveling in a Lexus salon car was stopped for routine checks at the checkpoint in front of Taabaa Police Station.

“However, the occupants became agitated and proceeded to barricade the road, obstructing the movement of other vehicles.”

The statement further said that after completing the necessary checks, the police officers requested that the individuals leave the scene but they refused, alleging that Inspector Erekere had recorded a video of their disruptive behaviour using her mobile phone.

Hence, in their attempt to seize Inspector Erekere’s phone forcefully, they launched a violent attack against her, striking her with stones.

“The severity of the assault caused Inspector Erekere to lose consciousness, and she was immediately transported to Nnadum Hospital in Bori. Regrettably, she succumbed to the injuries sustained during the attack,” the statement said.

“The Rivers State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into this abhorrent incident, and all individuals involved will be apprehended and brought to justice.”

The command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and her colleagues during the difficult time.

“Consequently, Inspector Erekere’s remains have been transferred to the mortuary pending an autopsy.

“The Rivers State Police Command deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly apprehended and held accountable for their actions.”