A shocking and tragic incident unfolded on Sunday, January 18, 2026, when a police officer allegedly shot a colleague dead while on duty, leaving the Rivers State Police Command in deep mourning. The victim, Inspector Ibrahim Sani, has been confirmed dead, while another officer involved is receiving treatment.
The suspect, Inspector Victor Okus, who serves with the 17 PMF but was on special assignment at Intels, Onne, has been arrested and is currently in police custody. Authorities say he allegedly opened fire on his colleagues without provocation.
Preliminary investigations, according to the Unit Commander of 14 PMF, DSP Turaki Hassan, indicate that the incident occurred around 1:20 pm at Next Cash and Carry Supermart in Trans-Amadi, Port Harcourt. Inspectors Ibrahim Sani and Daniel Dauda, both attached to 14 PMF, Yola, were on joint guard duty alongside military personnel at the location.
Inspector Okus reportedly shot his colleagues in the head and neck. Both injured officers were immediately rushed to Nopsam Hospital for urgent medical attention. Tragically, Inspector Sani succumbed to his injuries, while Inspector Dauda remains under medical care. The body of Inspector Sani has been deposited at the Military Hospital Mortuary, Port Harcourt, pending autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has ordered a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. The circumstances surrounding the shooting will be fully examined to ensure accountability, and Inspector Okus is expected to face an Orderly Room Trial before being charged to court for prosecution.
CP Adepoju further reminded all officers that handling firearms on duty carries immense responsibility. He emphasized that prioritizing one’s safety and that of colleagues is critical to preventing avoidable tragedies within the force.
The Rivers State Police Command expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the late Inspector Sani. The command also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and accountability across the force.
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the policing community in Rivers State, highlighting the need for strict adherence to safety protocols and the careful management of firearms by all officers during duty assignments.