Gunmen Kill Former Khana Council Security Chief in Rivers

Unidentified gunmen on Sunday evening shot dead Letam Kine, a former Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Khana Local Government Area, in an attack that triggered panic in Bori, Rivers State.

The killing occurred at about 6:00 p.m along the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic Road, according to residents. Witnesses said the sound of gunfire sent traders, motorists and pedestrians fleeing for safety as the attackers escaped before security personnel arrived at the scene.

The motive for the attack had not been established as of the time of filing this report.

A resident, who identified himself simply as Barine, said the incident caused widespread panic in the area.

"The attackers left before security operatives got to the scene. Everyone around the area ran for safety because nobody knew what would happen next," he said.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Thomas Bariere, described the killing as tragic and senseless.

In a statement issued through the Director of Press and Public Communications, Barry Neemana, the council chairman expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing pattern of violent attacks within the local government.

Bariere noted that the latest incident occurred only weeks after the killing of Clement Deegbara J. of Kpon Community, warning that the repeated attacks suggest criminal elements are attempting to destabilise the area.

He called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and operations across Khana to ensure those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted.

The chairman also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while supporting security agencies with credible information that could assist ongoing investigations.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the killing and said investigations were underway.

The Command's Public Relations Officer, ASP Grace Iringe-Koko Agabe, said the victim's remains had been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

"The body of the deceased has been deposited at the mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while a full investigation has commenced to identify and bring those responsible to justice," she said.

The police spokesperson disclosed that although members of the deceased's family had yet to lodge a formal complaint, they had been advised to do so to support the investigation.

"Although the family of the deceased has not yet lodged a formal complaint with the Police, they are strongly advised to do so, as this will aid ongoing investigations and facilitate the prompt administration of justice," Agabe added.

She reaffirmed the command's commitment to ensuring that those behind the killing are brought to justice.

"The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring that all those connected with this incident are identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law."

The killing adds to growing security concerns in parts of Rivers State, where residents have repeatedly called for stronger policing and improved intelligence gathering to curb violent attacks.