The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into a shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, along Sambo Street, Omoku, which claimed one life and left eight others injured.
According to the Police, a report was received at the Omoku Police Division at about 7:00 a.m. indicating that the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. while a group of youths were masquerading in the area.
Police sources said a confrontation broke out between the masquerade group and a man identified as Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu, alongside four personnel of the Nigeria Forest Guards Security Service (NFSS). During the altercation, nine members of the masquerade group sustained gunshot injuries.
One of the victims, identified simply as Obulo, was confirmed dead at the Hospital, Omoku, while eight others are currently receiving medical treatment at the same facility.
Following the incident, Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu and two other suspects were arrested and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
The Police said preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and establish the level of culpability of all those involved.
Meanwhile, the Area Commander has met with aggrieved youths in the community to calm tensions and prevent a breakdown of law and order. A joint security patrol involving the Police and the Military has also been deployed in the area to safeguard lives and property.
The Rivers State Police Command assured residents that all those found responsible for the incident will be brought to justice.
The Command urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as investigations continue.
