Tension swept through Bori Town in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State on Sunday evening following the killing of a former Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the council, Mr. Letam Kine, by suspected gunmen.

The fatal attack reportedly occurred at about 6:00 p.m. along the Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic Road, sending shockwaves across the community and forcing residents and passers-by to flee for safety.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants struck unexpectedly and escaped before security operatives could arrive at the scene. The motive behind the attack remains unknown as authorities intensify efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing.

A resident, identified simply as Barine, described the incident as frightening, noting that panic gripped the area immediately after gunshots rang out.

The killing has heightened concerns about the security situation in Khana, particularly in the wake of other recent violent incidents recorded within the local government area.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Mr. Thomas Bariere, condemned the murder in strong terms, describing it as a tragic and senseless act.

In a statement issued through the Director of Press and Public Communications, Barry Neemana, the council chairman expressed deep concern over the recurring attacks in the area, noting that the latest incident came only weeks after the killing of Mr. Clement Deegbara J. of Kpon Community.

Bariere warned that the pattern of violence suggested a deliberate attempt by criminal elements to destabilise the peace and security that residents have worked hard to sustain.

He called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and operational activities across Khana Local Government Area to ensure that those behind the killing are identified, apprehended, and brought to justice.

The chairman also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, urging them to remain strong during the difficult period.

He appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while cooperating with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident and announced the commencement of a full-scale investigation.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Grace Iringe-Koko, stated that the remains of the deceased had been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

She explained that detectives have already begun efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

According to the police spokesperson, although the deceased’s family has yet to lodge a formal complaint, they have been encouraged to do so in order to support ongoing investigations and facilitate the swift administration of justice.

She reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring that every individual connected to the crime is tracked down, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The latest killing has once again drawn attention to growing concerns over violent crimes in parts of Rivers State, with residents calling for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.