A former Chief Security Officer of Bori, the headquarters of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mr Letam Kine, has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in what residents suspect was a cult-related attack.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening along Polytechnic Road in Bori, where the assailants reportedly opened fire on the victim before fleeing into nearby bushes.
The attack sparked panic across the area as residents, motorists and passers-by ran for safety after gunshots rang out. Kine’s lifeless body was later found at the scene.
An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the killing disrupted commercial and social activities, forcing shop owners to shut their businesses while many residents fled the area.
“As a result of the incident, social and business activities were immediately halted, with shop owners hurriedly closing their businesses,” the source said.
“As I speak with you, activities have resumed, unlike last night, but people, especially students, are still afraid over the killing, which many said was carried out by cultists.
“Policemen came, but it was too late because the assailants had fled the scene.”
Bori, the traditional headquarters of the Ogoni people, is home to Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, with students forming a significant part of the town’s population.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr Thomas Bariere, condemned the killing, describing it as a senseless act of violence that has no place in a peaceful and law-abiding society.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Communications for Khana LGA, Barry Neemana, Bariere expressed concern that the murder came only weeks after the killing of Mr Clement Deegbara J. in Kpong Community, warning that the repeated attacks point to the activities of armed criminal gangs seeking to destabilise the area.
“The Executive Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Chief Dr Thomas Bariere, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Mr Letam Kine, also known as Langa, by yet-to-be-identified gunmen.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence. Such criminality has no place in a peaceful and law-abiding society.
“He expressed deep concern that the killing comes barely weeks after the tragic murder of Mr Clement Deegbara J. of Kpong Community, noting that the repeated attacks point to the activities of armed criminal gangs determined to undermine the peace and security of Khana.
“Dr Bariere called on all security agencies to intensify their operations across the Local Government Area and ensure that those behind these heinous crimes are swiftly brought to justice.
“He urged law enforcement authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the murder of Mr Letam Kine, arrest everyone connected to the crime, and ensure they face the full weight of the law.”
The council chairman also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice is served and strengthening security across Khana.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Superintendent of Police Blessing Agabe, said Kine’s body had been deposited in a morgue while investigations continue.
“Yes, I can confirm the incident. Our men are there, patrols are ongoing in the area, and an investigation is underway to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators,” Agabe said.
