NO fewer than 16 suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder of a female Police Inspector, Christiana Erekere, on duty in front of Taabaa Police Station in the Khana Local Council of Rivers State on April 25.
The suspects, who were travelling in a private vehicle, were said to have been stopped by policemen for a routine search, when suddenly, an argument ensued and the occupants became angry and blocked the road, according to a statement on Monday, April 29, by spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko.
The statement read: “The Rivers State Police Command announces the arrest of 16 persons in connection with the tragic death of Inspector Christiana Erekere, who was murdered in the line of duty on April 25, 2024, at approximately 4pm.
“According to preliminary investigations, the incident occurred when a group of individuals traveling in a Lexus salon car was stopped for routine checks at the checkpoint in front of Taabaa Police Station.
“However, the occupants became agitated and proceeded to barricade the road, obstructing the movement of other vehicles.”
It added that after completing the necessary checks, the Police officers requested that the individuals leave the scene, but they refused, alleging that Erekere had recorded a video of their disruptive behaviour using her mobile phone.
The statement noted that in the process of attempting to seize Erekere’s phone forcefully, the suspects attacked her, striking her with stones, adding: “The severity of the assault caused Erekere to lose consciousness and she was immediately transported to Nnadum Hospital in Bori.
“Regrettably, she succumbed to the injuries sustained during the attack.
“The Rivers State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into this abhorrent incident and all individuals involved will be apprehended and brought to justice.”
The Command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and her colleagues during the difficult time, saying her remains have been transferred to the mortuary, pending an autopsy.
“The Rivers State Police Command deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly apprehended and held accountable for their actions,” the statement added.
