PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Gunmen have killed two people after launching a late-night attack on Rumuodogo 2 Community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, sparking fear among residents and prompting a police investigation.
The assailants reportedly stormed the community in the early hours of Monday, breaking into homes in what residents described as a coordinated operation targeting specific individuals.
Attack occurred in the early hours
According to residents, the gunmen arrived at about 1:00 a.m., moving from house to house in search of their targets.
One resident, identified only as Monica, said she and her husband were dragged from their home after the attackers forced their way inside.
She alleged that the armed men broke down their door, forced the couple outside and assaulted her husband before shooting him.
“They came around 1:00 a.m., broke our door and dragged my husband and me outside. I was even naked when they brought us out. They started beating my husband before shooting him,” she said.
Monica added that the attackers initially threatened to kill her as well but eventually spared her after one of them intervened because she was a woman.
Motive yet to be confirmed
The grieving resident claimed the attackers accused members of Rumuodogo 2 Community of being responsible for the deaths of individuals whose bodies were reportedly recovered from a nearby river last week.
She further alleged that the gunmen came from a neighbouring community located in another local government area bordering Emohua.
Authorities have not confirmed those allegations, and the motive for the attack remains under investigation.
Residents flee community
The shooting reportedly shattered the calm in the community, forcing many residents to flee their homes in panic.
Some villagers reportedly sought refuge in surrounding bushes as the gunmen carried out the attack.
The incident has heightened tension in the area, with residents expressing concerns over their safety.
Police confirm killings
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the attack and the deaths.
Police spokesperson ASP Grace Iringe-Koko Agabe said officers had commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
“I can confirm the incident. Two persons were killed in the attack. Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the motive behind the attack and to arrest the perpetrators,” she said.
Security agencies have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the killings.
Renewed security concerns
The latest attack adds to growing security concerns in parts of Rivers State and neighbouring communities, where violent incidents linked to communal disputes, reprisals and criminal activities have continued to threaten residents.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators by providing any useful information that could assist in tracking down those behind the attack.
