Unknown gunmen have shot dead a former Chief Security Officer of Bori, the headquarters of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, in an attack that has raised fresh security concerns in the area.
Letam Kine, was killed on Sunday evening along Polytechnic Road, Bori, after suspected attackers opened fire on him and fled the scene.
The incident, which occurred in a busy area of the town, reportedly caused panic among residents and business owners, with many people hurriedly closing their shops and seeking safety immediately after hearing gunshots.
An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers escaped into nearby bushes after carrying out the shooting. The source added that security personnel later arrived at the scene, but the assailants had already fled.
Residents have raised suspicions that the attack may have been linked to cult-related activities, although the identity of the killers and their motive remain unknown.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr Thomas Bariere, condemned the killing, describing it as a tragic and unacceptable act of violence.
Bariere said the attack came shortly after another killing in a neighbouring community, warning that repeated incidents could threaten peace and security in the area.
He urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, arrest those responsible, and ensure they face prosecution.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the killing, with its spokesperson, SP Blessing Agabe, stating that the victim’s body had been deposited in a morgue.
Agabe added that police officers had commenced investigation and intensified patrols in the area as efforts continued to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
