Gunmen kill vigilante commander, three women in Rivers

A local security commander and three women were killed in an attack by suspected cultists in Omoku, Rivers State, Nigeria. Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha, the zonal commander of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), was shot and killed along with the women, including his sister, while they were relaxing outside his compound.

The killings are suspected to be a reprisal following an earlier violent incident where armed security personnel and OSPAC members allegedly disrupted a youth meeting and opened fire, injuring two youths. Videos circulating on social media showed multiple casualties and distressed residents at the scene.

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

The attack has instilled fear in the community, leading some residents to flee to neighboring areas and causing business activities to halt. The Public Relations Officer of OSPAC in Rivers State confirmed the incident, stating that three women died instantly and two others sustained gunshot wounds, requiring hospitalization. Authorities have been notified, and OSPAC, in conjunction with security agencies, is investigating the matter.

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As I speak to you, many businesses and markets have remained shut since Tuesday. Many residents have also fled to neighbouring communities for safety because of fear. There is serious panic here.