The Paramount Ruler of Bangha Kingdom in the Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Suanu Baridam, narrowly escaped death on Sunday evening after gunmen opened fire on his convoy.
King Baridam was returning from an engagement in the Okwale community, within Khana when the gunmen in what appears to be an ambush and on a mission to assasinate, attacked his convoy.
The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. along the Tekar Sogho Road, linking the area to the East–West Road.
Current matters learnt that the assailants attempted to force the monarch’s vehicle to stop between Taabaa Junction and Sogho,
But the driver refused to stop and the gunmen reportedly opened fire on the vehicle.
The monarch is said to have sustained a gunshot injury to his thigh, while his driver was also wounded during the attack.
They were rushed to the hospital where they are receiving treatment.
Meanwhile, the State Police Command has confirmed the attack on the monarch saying an investigation into the incident has already been launched.
In a statement issued by the Spokesperson,Grace Iringe – Koko on Monday, the Command said unknown gunmen emerged from the bush and attacked the monarch’s black Prado Jeep, shattering the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle.
It described the victim as King T. Y. Baridam, the Paramount Ruler of Bangha Community, and confirmed that he sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh.
The Command added that patrol teams were immediately deployed to the area to track down the attackers.
“The Rivers State Police Command has commenced investigation into the incident and will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said.
The Command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in their investigation.
