The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has condemned the recent outbreak of violence in Rivers State which led to the tragic deaths of a Police officer, Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante operative.

The killings occurred when supporters of the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike clashed over the tenure of the 23 LG chairmen.

Reacting to the development, the IGP, in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state.

He also directed CP Disu to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.

Egbetokun also ordered thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, and the general violence which erupted in the state.

According to the statement, the IGP specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team, IRT, to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.

The IGP warned individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.

The IGP while condoling with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member, said that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted.

The Inspector General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.