Rivers State Police Launch Probe into Ushering Manager’s Murder in Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the brutal murder of an ushering manager, widely known as ‘Special,’ who was fatally shot by unidentified assailants in Port Harcourt. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting swift action from law enforcement authorities.
The victim, identified by her first name ‘Special’ and with the surname Bensington, was reportedly travelling to an event venue along Odili Road in Port Harcourt. She was accompanied by a friend, Miss Divine Anyanwu, and they had engaged a Bolt ride service for their journey.
According to preliminary reports from the police, the gunmen, who were travelling in a tricycle, are believed to have followed the victims from the hotel where the Bolt driver had picked them up. The attack occurred while the vehicle was en route to the event. The assailants allegedly opened fire on the Bolt car as it travelled along Odili Road, resulting in the victim sustaining severe gunshot wounds.
Details of the Incident and Police Response
The spokesperson for the State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, released a statement detailing the unfolding investigation. The incident, which took place on March 21st, was officially reported to the police by Miss Divine Anyanwu, who was a witness to the tragic event and was present in the same vehicle as the deceased.
The police statement elaborated on the sequence of events: “On 21st March 2026 at about 4:30 PM, reported by one Miss Divine Anyanwu of No. 9 Aliobi Drive, Elimgbu, Port Harcourt, at the Abuloma Police Division on 19th March 2026 at about 7:00 PM, she and her friend, identified simply as one Special Bensington, boarded a Bolt ride from a hotel located on Emmanuel Road, off Odili Road, Port Harcourt.
While en route along the Total Gospel area, off Odili Road, they were reportedly attacked by unknown armed hoodlums suspected to have trailed them from the hotel. The assailants, who were operating a tricycle, opened fire on the victims. In the course of the attack, the said victim sustained gunshot injuries.”
Following the shooting, the injured ushering manager was immediately transported to BMH Hospital in Port Harcourt. Medical professionals on duty confirmed her death while she was undergoing treatment.
Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer of the Abuloma Division, along with his team, promptly visited both the scene of the crime and the hospital. The body of the deceased has since been transferred to the mortuary for an autopsy to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The Rivers State Police Command has emphasized its commitment to uncovering the truth behind this violent act. The case has been officially transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough and discreet forensic examination. Authorities are actively pursuing leads and deploying all necessary resources to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the murder.
SP Iringe-Koko stated, “The Command strongly condemns this gruesome act and assures the public that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to justice.”
The police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information that could be crucial to the investigation is urged to come forward. This can be done by contacting the dedicated police phone lines or by reporting to the nearest police station. The Command has reiterated its commitment to keeping residents informed about the progress of the investigation.
“The Command further assures residents that updates concerning the incident will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement concluded. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of security and crime in urban areas, and the police are working diligently to restore confidence and ensure the safety of the community.
