Tragedy struck the Rivers State Police Command on Sunday as a Police Inspector, identified as Victor Okus, allegedly opened fire on his colleagues, killing one and leaving another critically injured.
The incident occurred at the Next Cash and Carry Supermarket in the Trans-Amadi area of Port Harcourt, where the officers were deployed for joint guard duty.
According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, the suspect, Inspector Okus, is attached to the 17 Police Mobile Force (PMF) but was on special duty at the time. The victims, Inspector Ibrahim Sani and Inspector Daniel Dauda, were both attached to the 14 PMF, Yola, and were working alongside Okus when the shooting took place around 1:20 p.m.
Preliminary investigations reveal that Inspector Okus shot his colleagues in the head and neck regions following an altercation, the cause of which remains unclear.
“The Rivers State Police Command is deeply saddened to report a tragic and distressing incident that occurred on January 18, 2026, resulting in the loss of a dedicated Police Officer, Inspector Ibrahim Sani,” the statement read.
Both victims were rushed to Nopsam Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Inspector Sani succumbed to his injuries, while Inspector Dauda remains hospitalized. The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Military Hospital Mortuary in Port Harcourt for autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the shooting. He confirmed that Inspector Okus has been arrested and is currently in police custody, where he will face an Orderly Room Trial before being charged to court.
Commissioner Adepoju condemned the act, describing it as “reprehensible,” and reminded officers that the handling of firearms is a serious responsibility that requires the utmost discipline and caution. He extended his condolences to the family of the slain officer and assured the public that justice would be served.
