Gunmen kill local security leader and three women in Rivers

Gunmen believed to be cult members shot and killed the zonal commander of a local security group known as OSPAC in Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area in Rivers State. The victim was identified as Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha and the attack happened on Tuesday evening.

Three women were also killed in the shooting. One of the women was the commander’s sister who was with him during the attack.

OSPAC stands for the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area Security Planning and Advisory Committee.

The attackers struck when the vigilante commander was relaxing outside his home with the women along Oba Road in Omoku. Reports suggest that this killing might be revenge for a recent violent clash over a community issue.

A source told our correspondent that earlier on Tuesday, a youth meeting was interrupted when armed security officers and OSPAC members allegedly entered the venue and opened fire. This incident left two young men with gunshot wounds.

Videos showing the aftermath of the shooting spread on social media. Our correspondent saw these videos on Wednesday. They showed multiple casualties, including the three women.

Some residents, believed to be relatives of the victims, were seen crying at the scene. Others helped the injured into a vehicle.

The incident has caused fear in the area. Many residents have left for safer spots, and businesses have been affected. A source, who asked to remain anonymous due to the delicate nature of the situation, said, “As I speak to you, many businesses and markets have remained shut since Tuesday.

“Many residents have also fled to neighboring communities for safety because of fear. There is serious panic here.”

The Public Relations Officer of OSPAC in Rivers State, Nkem Godknows, confirmed the event in a voice note. He said the gunmen attacked the vigilante commander while he was sitting with his sister and her friend near his house.

Godknows mentioned that the incident happened around 5 p.m. on Tuesday. He added that the three women died instantly from the bullets fired by the attackers.

He also reported that two other victims were shot and taken to the hospital, where they are getting treatment. He said, “It was about 5:05 p.m. Our commander was hanging out with his sister and friend around his neighborhood. Before you know it, the gunmen got there and shot him dead.

“There are three women that died on the spot, while two others are in the hospital with bullet wounds.

“We reported to the police immediately. My call to the people of Omoku and ONELGA in general is that they should remain calm. Nobody should panic.

“By God’s grace, OSPAC and the security agencies are on top of the matter. I also appeal to the government and the security personnel to come to the aid of OSPAC because we are not properly taken care of.

“We are not paid. We have no source of income.”

When reached on Wednesday afternoon, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Blessing Agabe, confirmed the attack. She expressed sadness over the situation, calling it a setback to the peace in the state.

Agabe condemned the attack and assured the public that the police will arrest and prosecute those responsible. She said, “I can confirm the incident. The Rivers State Police Command is saddened by this incident, which has disturbed the relative peace being enjoyed in the state.

“The command condemns this act in its entirety and assures that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.

“The Rivers State Police Command seeks credible information from members of the public that will assist us in our ongoing investigation.