16 persons arrested over murder of female police inspector in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested sixteen persons in connection with the murder of a female police inspector, Christiana Erekere.

Erekere was murdered in the line of duty on Thursday afternoon, April 25, 2024, in front of Taabaa Police Station in Khanna Local Government Area of the state. 

Spokesperson of the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, who made this known in a statement on Monday, April 29, 2024, said a group of individuals in a private vehicle stoned the officer to death. 

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

“However, the occupants became agitated and proceeded to barricade the road, obstructing the movement of other vehicles. After completing the necessary checks, the police officers requested that the individuals leave the scene. Unfortunately, they refused, alleging that Inspector Erekere had recorded a video of their disruptive behaviour using her mobile phone.

“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 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 extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased colleague during this difficult time.

“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.”