The police command in Rivers has confirmed the killing of the former chief security officer of Khana council area, Letam Kine.

Mr Kine was reportedly shot dead by gunmen along Polytechnic Road, Bori, Khana LGA, around 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

The command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, confirmed the killing to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Ms Agabe said the assailants fled the scene before security operatives arrived, and the victim’s body was deposited in a mortuary.

She said the body would be preserved pending autopsy, as police launched investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing.

“The Rivers state police command has launched a full investigation to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice,” she said.

Ms Agabe urged Mr Kine’s family to formally report the assassination to the police to facilitate the investigation and administration of justice.

“Reporting the matter to the police will aid ongoing investigations and facilitate the prompt administration of justice,” she added.

She reaffirmed the command’s commitment to identifying, arresting and prosecuting all those connected with the killing.

Reacting to the killing, Khana council chairman Thomas Bariere condemned the attack as a senseless act of violence.

Mr Bariere described Mr Kine’s assassination as heartbreaking, saying such violence has no place in a peaceful and law-abiding society.

He expressed concern that the killing occurred weeks after Clement Deegbara of Kpong community was killed.

“The repeated attacks suggest the activities of armed criminal gangs determined to undermine peace and security in Khana LGA,” Mr Bariere said.

The council chairman called on security agencies to intensify operations across Khana and swiftly apprehend those responsible for the attacks.

Mr Bariere urged the prosecution of all culpable suspects while extending condolences to Mr Kine’s family over the loss.

Mr Bariere prayed for strength for the bereaved family to cope with the tragedy and urged residents to remain calm. He also called on residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and credible information.

The chairman reaffirmed that protecting lives and property remained a top priority of his administration.

(NAN)