The Rivers State Police Command has launched investigation following the tragic death of Inspector Ibrahim Sani, who was allegedly shot by a fellow officer while on duty at the Trans-Amadi axis of Port Harcourt on Sunday afternoon.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. during a joint security operation involving police and military personnel stationed at Next Cash and Carry Supermarket.
Inspector Sani and his colleagues, part of a team on special duty from Yola, Adamawa State, were reportedly performing routine guard duties when the shooting took place.
The suspect, identified as Inspector Victor Okus, allegedly fired his official rifle at colleagues, fatally wounding Inspector Sani and seriously injuring Inspector Daniel Dauda, who is receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, describing it as “tragic and distressing” for the command.
She explained that the officers involved were attached to the 14 Police Mobile Force (PMF) and were deployed on special assignment in Rivers State.
“The suspect, Inspector Okus, is attached to 17 PMF but was on special duty at Intels, Onne,” CSP Iringe-Koko said.
“He has been arrested and is currently in police custody as preliminary investigations continue.”
The Unit Commander of 14 PMF, DSP Turaki Hassan, provided early details of the shooting, stating that both injured officers were immediately transported to Nopsam Hospital, where Inspector Sani was pronounced dead.
Sani’s remains have since been moved to the Military Hospital Mortuary in Port Harcourt for autopsy.
Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, directed a comprehensive and transparent probe into the circumstances of the shooting.
He stated that Inspector Okus would face an Orderly Room Trial, followed by prosecution in court.
The CP also urged officers to exercise the highest level of discipline and responsibility when handling firearms, warning that duty weapons must be carefully managed to prevent avoidable tragedies.
He extended condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased officer, describing Sani as a “dedicated and committed member of the force.”
The investigation continues as the command seeks to clarify the motive behind the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
