The Rivers State Police Command says on Sunday, March 10, 2024, a coordinated joint operation was carried out by tactical squads from the Rivers State Police Command and personnel from the Force Intelligence Bureau.
SP Grace Iringe Koko,spokesperson fpr the Rivers State Police Command in a statement on Wednesday 13th March,2024 said the operation targeted the camp of the deceased cult leader, Gift Okpara, famously known as 2Baba, situated within the forested region of Odiemude Community in Ahoada East Local Government Area.
She explained that diligent search efforts led to the discovery of a burial site within the gang’s shrine, where the remains of the slain Police Officer, SP Bako Angbashim, were located and subsequently exhumed, notably, the exhumed remains include the skull of the deceased.
SP Koko discloded that the recovered remains have been taken to the mortuary, where they will undergo scientific examination and genetic testing.
The Police Public Relations officer revealed that the tests aim to establish the identity of the remains through a meticulous comparison with samples obtained from the late officer’s relatives.
The spokesoerson for the Rivers state Police command revealed that efforts are underway to locate and retrieve the remaining dismembered parts of SP Bako Angbashim’s body, suspected to have been buried at various undisclosed locations within the forest.
Recall that 2Baba, the leader of the gang responsible for this heinous crime, met his demise on February 17, 2024, during a planned assault executed by the Rivers State Police Command. 2Baba died in Ebrass, Ahoada West Local Government Area, but unfortunately, his gang members managed to escape with his body.
Following an intensive seven-day search, aided by credible intelligence, Tubaba’s body was ultimately recovered from a shallow grave in the Ebrass forest.
Meanwhile the Commissioner of Police, Cp Olatunji Disu, on behalf of the Rivers State Police Command, commended the unwavering dedication and resolute commitment demonstrated by all the officers involved in this operation.
The Command also extended it gratitude to the community members for their invaluable support throughout the investigation process.
The Police in the statement noted that the Command will continue to prioritize the safety and security of all citizens, and they remain determined to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.
The statement added that the Rivers State Police Command remains steadfast in its mission to uphold peace, security, and justice within the state. Regular updates on the progress of this investigation will be provided as developments unfolds.