File Photo of IG Egbetokun
By Frank Efe, Warri
The Delta State Police Command has been thrown into mourning following Sunday’s killing of a divisional police officer and several other members of the force during an ambush.
The Divisional Police Officer in Charge of Agbarho Station, and his counterpart from Orerhokpe, CSP Paul, were caught in an ambush while on a mission to rescue kidnapped victims in Owodokpokpo Olomu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.
The DPO, it was gathered, had only just resumed his new post in Agbarho 48 hours earlier before his sad death, during the encounter, which took place around 1 a.m.
Reports indicate that the officers encountered heavy gunfire, resulting in multiple casualties. While the new DPO lost his life, CSP Paul has been rushed to an undisclosed hospital and is currently in critical condition.
The tragic news has drawn reactions from various quarters, including human rights activist Comr. Israel Joe, who expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
Just the day before the ambush, Comr. Joe said he had spoken with the new DPO regarding reports of police misconduct, where officers were accused of demanding bribes from citizens.
He said the DPO had promptly addressed the issue, assuring that such behaviour would not be tolerated under his leadership.
“I feel very pained about this news. This was a dedicated officer committed to serving the community,” Comr. Joe stated in a Facebook post. “I wish to convey my condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, the CP Delta State Command, and the families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.”
The ambush has sparked calls for increased security measures and a thorough investigation into the incident.
Activists and community leaders are demanding accountability for those responsible for the attack, urging that “none of these demons should be spared by the force.”
As the Delta State Police Command grapples with this tragedy, the community reflects on the sacrifices made by officers dedicated to ensuring public safety amidst rising security challenges.
At the time of filling this report efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, for further comments, after initially confirming the attack earlier on Monday.
