The police have launched a manhunt for cultists who killed a police officer, SP Bako Angbanshin in Odumude community, Ahoada East Local Government, Rivers state.
The deceased police officer was until his death, the Divisional Police Officer in Odumude community in River state.
The unfortunate incident was said to have happened on Friday night.
The police disclosed that Angbanshin had led cops to raid some criminal hideouts in the area and while returning, gunmen suspected to be cultists ambushed their vehicle.
It was learned that the state Commissioner for Police, Emeka Nwonyi announced the death of Bako in a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko on Saturday morning.
Nwonyi added that whilst the miscreants were attacking the policemen, Angbanshin’s men had retreated after running out of ammunition.
The statement further disclosed that the late DPO sustained fatal injuries and was captured by the gunmen who took him away and he later died.
The statement partially reads; “in an unfortunate incident on the evening of September 8, 2023, the DPO of Ahoda Division, SP Bako Angbashim, displayed exemplary courage during a mission to combat criminal activities in the Odumude area of Ahoada East Local Government, Rivers state.
“SP Bako Angbashim, alongside his dedicated team, embarked on a raid of known criminal black spots in the region. The operation led to a pursuit of criminals from their concealed hideouts. Tragically, as they were returning from this operation, they were ambushed by a significant number of criminals who opened fire on the brave officers. In the face of this adversity, SP Bako Angbashim valiantly held his ground while his men, depleted of ammunition, made a tactical retreat.
“Regrettably, during this engagement, SP Bako Angbashim sustained fatal injuries and one of his informants who was also injured is currently receiving medical care for a gunshot wound”.
He added that he criminals seized the body of SP Bako Angbashim, forcing the remaining officers to return to their base for reinforcement. Efforts were made to rescue and recover the DPO’s body, with assistance sought from soldiers stationed at FOB Base Etraco.
However, the operation proved challenging due to the extremely dark conditions within the dense bush, he said.
While condoling with the family of Angbashim, the CP however, promised to bring those responsible for Bako’s death to justice.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family of SP Bako Angbashim and all those affected by this distressing incident’ the CP said.
