Four killed as gunmen ambush Rivers vigilante

A local security commander and three women were killed Tuesday evening in Omoku, Rivers State, when suspected cultists ambushed them. The victims were identified as Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha, the zonal commander of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), and three women, one of whom was his sister.

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It was about 5:05 p.m. Our commander was hanging out with his sister and friend around his neighbourhood. Before you know it, the gunmen got there and shot him dead.

The attack reportedly took place along Oba Road as Nwaocha was relaxing outside his compound with the women. Sources suggest the killings may be a reprisal for a violent clash earlier that day. In that incident, armed security personnel and OSPAC members allegedly disrupted a youth meeting, causing gunshot injuries to two youths.

Videos circulating on social media showed multiple casualties and distressed residents at the scene. The violence has instilled fear in the community, causing many businesses and markets to shut down and prompting some residents to flee to neighboring areas for safety. The Public Relations Officer of OSPAC in Rivers State, Nkem Godknows, confirmed the incident, stating that the commander and the three women died instantly. Two other individuals sustained gunshot wounds and are receiving hospital treatment.

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

Godknows urged the community to remain calm, assuring them that OSPAC and security agencies are actively addressing the situation. The police command has been notified, and investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators.

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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.