Police Launch Manhunt For Gunmen Who Killed Woman In Rivers

Police in Rivers State have launched an investigation into the killing of a young woman, Special Bensington, who was shot dead while returning to her residence in Elimgbu, Port Harcourt.

The incident occurred on Saturday, March 21.

The deceased and her friend, identified simply as Divine Anyanwu, had boarded a Bolt ride from a hotel on Emmanuel Road, off Odili Road, when they were attacked.

It was gathered that while they were travelling along the Total Gospel area, off Odili Road, unknown armed assailants, suspected to have trailed them from the hotel, opened fire on the vehicle. The attackers were reportedly operating a tricycle.

Both victims sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to BMH Hospital, Port Harcourt, where Anyanwu was later confirmed dead by a doctor while receiving treatment.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, adding that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

She said, “The Rivers State Police Command is investigating the gruesome murder that occurred in Port Harcourt. On 21st March 2026 at about 4:30 PM, reported by one Miss Divine Anyanwu of No. 9 Aliobi Drive, Elimgbu, Port Harcourt, at the Abuloma Police Division, she and her friend, identified simply as Special Bensington, boarded a Bolt ride from a hotel located on Emmanuel Road, off Odili Road, Port Harcourt.

“While en route along the Total Gospel area, off Odili Road, they were reportedly attacked by unknown armed hoodlums suspected to have trailed them from the hotel. The assailants, who were operating a tricycle, opened fire on the victims. In the course of the attack, the victim sustained gunshot injuries.

“The victim was immediately rushed to BMH Hospital, Port Harcourt, where she was later confirmed dead by a medical doctor on duty while receiving treatment.

“Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Abuloma Division, alongside his team, visited both the scene of the incident and the hospital. The deceased has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.

“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet forensic investigation. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

“The Command strongly condemns this act and assures the public that those responsible will be brought to justice.

“Members of the public with useful information that may assist in the investigation are urged to come forward.

“The Command further assures residents that updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.”