March 05, (THEWILL) – At least four persons have been confirmed injured after an “unidentified assailant” on Wednesday, opened fire on a crowd in Elele Roundabout, Ekwerre local government area of Rivers State.
The spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident, said the assailant fled the scene.
The statement read: “The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a violent attack at Elele Roundabout on the morning of March 5, 2025, at about 7 am.
“Acting on credible intelligence regarding the unlawful assembly of suspected hoodlums at the location, a patrol team from Elele Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), swiftly mobilised to the scene to restore order.
“During an attempt to address the crowd, an unidentified assailant, hiding within the vicinity, opened fire resulting in multiple injuries. As at press time, the number of those injured stood at four (4).
“The armed hoodlums fled the scene immediately, but one of them was apprehended, and a single-barrel gun was recovered from him. The injured victims were promptly rushed to various hospitals in Elele for medical attention.
“A manhunt is currently underway for the fleeing suspects, some of whom have been identified as members of the local vigilante group known as OSPAC. The arrested suspect, along with the recovered firearm, will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), for further investigation.
“The Rivers State Police Command assures the public that all perpetrators involved in this criminal act will be apprehended and brought to justice. Further updates will be communicated in due course.
“The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, calls on residents to remain calm and provide any useful information that may assist in the ongoing investigation. The Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.”
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