The Rivers State Police Command, on Monday, confirmed that there was an assassination attempt on a traditional ruler in Khana Local Government Area of the state.
There was a reported attempt, made on Sunday, to assassinate the paramount ruler of Bangha Community, King Suanu T. Y. Baridam, while returning from a peace meeting.
Though he escaped, the traditional ruler was said to have sustained a gunshot injury on his thigh, on his way from the meeting, held in Okwale Community.
He was said to have reported at the police station, same Sunday, that “his vehicle came under attack by unknown gunmen.”
Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, stated in a release that the law enforcement agency has commenced a manhunt for the perpetrators of the assassination attempt.
“On Sunday, January 25, 2026, at about 5:30pm, His Royal Majesty, King T.Y. Baridam, the paramount ruler of Bangha Community, reported at the Police Station that while returning from Okwale Community where he had attended a meeting, his vehicle came under attack by unknown gunmen.
“According to his report, upon reaching Tekar Sogho Road leading to the East–West Road in Khana LGA, the hoodlums emerged from the bush and opened fire on his vehicle, a black Prado Jeep. The gunshots shattered the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle.
“During the attack, the traditional ruler sustained a gunshot injury to his thigh and he is currently receiving medical treatment,” it was stated in the release.
The Rivers Police image-maker also disclosed that, “following the incident, police patrol teams were swiftly deployed to the area to comb the surroundings and arrest the perpetrators.”
She added that investigation was ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the assassination attempt.
She assured the public that state Police Command will not leave any stone unturned to ensure that the perpetrators were brought to justice.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and provide useful information that can aid security agencies in their investigation,” she added.
