The Rivers State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the killing of a 300-level student of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, who was shot dead in a suspected cult-related attack.
The deceased, identified as Julius Okpor, was reportedly ambushed and shot by suspected cultists around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, near Cecilia Road in the Rumuolumeni area of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the student was rushed to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital by police operatives, but was confirmed dead on arrival.
Iringe-Koko, in a statement issued on Sunday, said preliminary investigations point to a clash between rival cult groups as the cause of the attack. She assured that the police are on the trail of those responsible and called for public cooperation in providing useful information that could aid the investigation.
“The Rivers State Police Command is investigating a suspected cult-related incident that resulted in the death of a student of Ignatius Ajuru University. Preliminary findings suggest that the attack may be connected to ongoing rival cult activities,” the statement read in part.
She noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has directed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to book and restore calm in the community.
The killing has sparked renewed concerns over cult-related violence in Port Harcourt, especially around institutions of higher learning. In recent months, several students have been victims of cult clashes, prompting calls from community leaders and stakeholders for increased security and preventive measures within university environments.
While the management of Ignatius Ajuru University has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, students have expressed shock and outrage, calling on authorities to ensure justice is served and steps taken to guarantee their safety on and off campus.
Police say investigations are ongoing and appealed to residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring that efforts are being made to apprehend the suspects and restore order.
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