Gunmen on Sunday evening killed Mr Letam Kine, a former Chief Security Officer of Bori, the administrative headquarters of Khana Local Government Area in Rivers State.

The attack occurred along Polytechnic Road in Bori, where residents said the assailants opened fire on Kine before fleeing into nearby bushes. Many residents suspected the attackers were cultists.

An eyewitness told journalists on Monday that the shooting triggered panic across the area, forcing residents and passers-by to run for safety. The victim’s body was later found after the gunfire subsided.

Bori, home to the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic named after the late playwright and environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, has a large student population that contributes significantly to the town’s population.

Residents Describe Panic After Attack

A resident, who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the incident, said commercial and social activities came to an abrupt halt immediately after the shooting, with traders shutting their businesses.

“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,” the source said.

Council Chairman Condemns Killing

The Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr Thomas Bariere, condemned the murder, describing it as a senseless act of violence that has no place in a peaceful society.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Communications in Khana LGA, Barry Neemana, Bariere said Kine’s death was deeply troubling and expressed concern that it occurred only weeks after the killing of Mr Clement Deegbara J. of Kpong Community.

According to the chairman, the repeated attacks point to the activities of armed criminal gangs intent on disrupting peace and security in the local government 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 deceased’s family and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice and protecting lives and property across Khana.

Police Confirm Incident

The spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Superintendent of Police Blessing Agabe, confirmed the incident on Monday, stating that Kine’s body had been deposited in a morgue.

“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.