It was learnt that the incident happened on April 25, while the policewoman was on duty at the Bori Police Division.
No fewer than 16 suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder of a female police inspector, Christiana Erekere, in front of Taabaa Police Station in the Khana local government area of Rivers State.
It was learnt that the incident happened on April 25, while the policewoman was on duty at the Bori Police Division.
The men in a private vehicle were said to have been stopped by policemen for a routine search, while suddenly, an argument ensued and the occupants became angry and blocked the road, according to a statement from the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, on Monday.
The statement reads, “The Rivers State Police Command announces the arrest of 16 persons in connection with the tragic death of Inspector Christiana Erekere, who was murdered in the line of duty on April 25, 2024, at approximately 4pm.
“According to preliminary investigations, the incident occurred when a group of individuals traveling in a Lexus salon car was stopped for routine checks at the checkpoint in front of Taabaa Police Station.
“However, the occupants became agitated and proceeded to barricade the road, obstructing the movement of other vehicles."
The statement furthered said that after completing the necessary checks, the police officers requested that the individuals leave the scene but they refused, alleging that Inspector Erekere had recorded a video of their disruptive behaviour using her mobile phone.
Hence, in their attempt to seize Inspector Erekere’s phone forcefully, they launched a violent attack against her, striking her with stones.
“The severity of the assault caused Inspector Erekere to lose consciousness, and she was immediately transported to Nnadum Hospital in Bori. Regrettably, she succumbed to the injuries sustained during the attack,” the statement said.
“The Rivers State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into this abhorrent incident, and all individuals involved will be apprehended and brought to justice.”
The command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and her colleagues during the difficult time.
"Consequently, Inspector Erekere’s remains have been transferred to the mortuary pending an autopsy.
“The Rivers State Police Command deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly apprehended and held accountable for their actions.”