Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, on Wednesday directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olatunji Disu, and his team to go after the killers of one of the personnel of the force.
The IGP, who also ordered the deployment of more tactical squad to the State, said he was very sad with the political “unrest” in the State, while condemning the act of lynching security operatives.
It was reported that a police officer and a member of the vigilantes were maimed during a protest between supporters of the governor and his predecessor agitating for the exit of Local Government Chairmen whom their tenure expired.
Reacting to the killings, Egbetokun, in statement, vowed that the issue won’t be swept under the carpet, insisting that those who perpetrated the dastardly act would not go unpunished.
The top cop, who spoke through the spokesman of the Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, described the incident as “tragic”, while also commiserating with the family members of the deceased operatives.
Adejobi said, “The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, condemns in the strongest terms the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State, where supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, which unfortunately led to the tragic deaths of a Police Officer – Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA.
“In response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.
“The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.
“The IGP seriously warns individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.
“The CP has also been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.
“The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted.
“The Inspector-General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.”