Gunmen ‘who killed security operatives’ in Rivers arrested

Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, says the gunmen who killed security operatives in the state have been arrested.

Speaking during a broadcast on Saturday, the governor said the security measures put in place to stop the killing of security personnel have yielded positive results.

The governor also announced the relaxation of the curfew in Obio-Akpor and Port Harcourt LGAs as well as Port Harcourt International Airport.

“Thank heavens, those responsible for the premeditated ambushes and murders of security personnel in the state have been apprehended and are now facing the bitter venom of our laws as none that is proven to be criminally liable will escape the fury and crushing impact of justice,” Wike said.

“We wish to reassure every citizen and resident that we are able, willing and ready to act directly and decisively, and at any time, with the full weight of our government to forestall every security threat to our State from any person, group or quarters.

“Consequently, the current nighttime curfew in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas will now be effective from 8.30 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. from Sunday 16th May 2021, while the starting and closing time-frame of 7.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. still continues to apply to the prevailing curfew in the rest of the 21 Local Government Areas of the State until further notice.

“The nation’s security agencies are on ground to strictly enforce the state-wide curfew as reviewed and arrest and prosecute any intransigent person or group that may fail to comply.”

In recent weeks, security operatives have come under attack in the state.

In April, gunmen attacked checkpoints along the Port Harcourt-Owerri road and killed some security agents, including police officers and operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The latest attack occurred on May 7, when two police stations and a checkpoint were attacked by gunmen, and seven persons — six police officers and the wife of a policeman — were killed.