In a somber turn of events, the Ahoada community in Rivers State is reeling from the loss of one of its revered police officers, District Police Officer (DPO) Bako Angbashim, who fell victim to a group of cultists.
The incident unfolded in Odumude Community in Ahoada East Local Government Area on a fateful Friday night.
DPO Bako Angbashim was known throughout the region for his unwavering commitment to eradicating the scourge of cultism, kidnapping, and violence that had plagued the area for years. His dedication to restoring order and peace had earned him respect and admiration among the local population.
Earlier this year, Bako had been transferred from his post at the Bori Police Divisional Headquarters in Khana LGA to Ahoada communities.
These communities, including Odumude, Odumereni, Odemusoma, Ihugbogo, Odieke, and others, had long been under the oppressive grip of ruthless cultists. Bako’s mission was clear: to root out these criminal elements and bring an end to the reign of terror.
A source in Odumude, where Bako was killed, had on condition of anonymity, revealed that despite anonymous warnings from the cultists for residents not to cooperate with security agencies, Bako immediately began applying pressure on the criminal factions.
it was learned that he successfully dismantled their hideouts and convinced some of the cult leaders to voluntarily surrender their weapons.
However, on that ill-fated Friday, the cultists regrouped and sought the aid of a spiritualist to bolster their ranks. In a tragic ambush in the forest, they managed to overpower Bako and his team, leading to his untimely demise.
The Rivers State Police Command has termed this event as deeply regrettable and has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, issued a statement, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Bako’s tragic death.
Iringe-Koko said: “In an unfortunate incident on 8th of September,2023, the DPO of Ahoada Division, SP Bako Angbashim, displayed exemplary courage during a mission to combat criminal activities in the Odumude Area of Ahoada East Local Government Area in Rivers State.
“SP Bako Angbashim, alongside his dedicated team, embarked on a raid of known criminal blackspots in the region. The operation led to a pursuit of criminals from their concealed hideouts. Tragically, as they were returning from this operation, they were ambushed by a significant number of criminals who opened fire on the brave officers.
“In the face of this adversity, SP Bako Angbashim, valiantly held his ground, while his men, depleted of ammunition, made a tactical retreat. Regrettably, during this engagement, SP Bako Angbashim sustained fatal injuries, and one of his informants was also injured, currently receiving medical care for a gunshot wound.
“The criminals seized the body of SP Bako Angbashim, forcing the remaining officers to return to their base for reinforcement. Efforts were made to rescue and recover the DPO’s body, with assistance sought from the Army teams stationed at FOB Base Etraco. However, the operation proved challenging due to the extremely dark conditions within the dense bush.
As the community grapples with this heartbreaking loss, they also stand united in their resolve to honor DPO Bako Angbashim’s memory and continue the fight against criminal elements that have plagued their lives for far too long.
Iringe-Koko thereby condoled the family of Bako on the loss, stating that all efforts are on to track down the killers.
“The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Nwonyi Polycarp Emeka, PhD, has expressed deep determination to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. An extensive investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The PPRO concluded that thoughts and condolences go out to the family of SP Bako Angbashim and all those affected by this distressing incident,” the PPRO.
