Police recover remains of slain DPO, Angbashim
By Barth Ndubuwah, Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Police Command has announced the recovery of remains of the murdered Ahoada Division DPO,Bako Angbashim, following diligent investigation into the tragic murder of the late Divisional Police Officer.
This was contained in a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer ( PPRO) of the Command,SP Grace Iringe-Koko in Port Harcourt.
“The Command’s unwavering commitment to resolving this heinous crime and ensuring justice has yielded fruitful results.
“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. This operation targeted the camp of the deceased cult leader, Gift Okpara, famously known as 2Baba, situated within the forest region of Odiemude Community in Ahoada East Local Government Area.
“During the operation, 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,” the statement read.
The statement also disclosed that the recovered remains have been taken to the mortuary, where it will undergo scientific examination and genetic testing.
“These tests aim to establish the identity of the remains through a meticulous comparison with samples obtained from the late officer’s relatives,” the statement read in part.
The PPRO added further that ongoing efforts are on to locate and retrieve the remaining dismembered parts of late SP Bako Angbashim’s body, suspected to have been buried at various undisclosed locations within the forest.
It would be recalled that late 2Baba, the alleged 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.
Consequently 2Baba died in Ebrass, Ahoada West Local Government Area, but unfortunately, his gang members managed to escape with his body.
However, following an intensive seven-day search, aided by credible intelligence, 2Baba’s body was ultimately recovered from a shallow grave in the Ebrass forest.
The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has 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 its gratitude to the community members for their invaluable support throughout the investigation process.
“The Police will continue to prioritise the safety and security of all citizens and they remain determined to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.
“The Rivers State Police Command remains steadfast in its mission to uphold peace, security, and justice within the State,” he assured.
