A Divisional Police Officer in Ahoada Local Government Area of Rivers State, CSP Bako Amgbasim, has been beheaded by suspected cultists.

The incident occurred on Friday when the DPO and his team raided the hideout of the Icelander cult group. The gunmen ambushed the team and opened fire, killing the DPO in the gun duel.

The remaining officers were forced to retreat and seek reinforcement.

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched a manhunt for the killers.

The Commissioner of Police, Policarp Emeka Nwaonyi, has ordered a discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the DPO.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe Koko, said the DPO displayed exemplary courage during the mission to combat criminal activities.

She said he raided known criminal blackspots in the region alongside his team, leading to a pursuit of criminals from their hideouts.

The PPRO said the criminals ambushed the team as they were returning from the operation and opened fire.

The DPO valiantly held his ground, while his men, depleted of ammunition, made a tactical retreat. However, he sustained fatal injuries during the engagement.

Speaking further, the PPRO said the criminals seized the DPO’s body and forced 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.

“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.” She said

The Police Command has assured the public that the killers will be brought to justice.