Two members of the local vigilante group, Rundele Security and Peace Advisory Council (RUSPAC), identified as Endurance and Aboy, were beheaded, along with Aboy's biological brother, Onyema.
Additionally, a member of Emohua Local Vigilante Security Services (EMOVIS) from the Emohua Community was also killed.
According to community sources, the victims were caught off guard as the hoodlums attacked them while they were sleeping in their homes. The bodies of the RUSPAC members were abandoned, while their decapitated heads were displayed in the "Station" area of the community.
The attack was reportedly carried out by members of the Dey-Gbam cult group who had escaped from the community. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
The incident occurred less than a week after the recognition and bestowing of the staff of office upon the Paramount Ruler of Rundele Clan, HRH Barr. Damian Ejiowhuo, Eze Rundele N'ogbo II, by the former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike.
When contacted, the Paramount Ruler of the community, HRH Eze Damian Ejiowhuo, confirmed the incident but declined to provide further details.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, stated that an official statement regarding the incident would be issued. The police are expected to launch an investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The gruesome killings have left the community in a state of shock and mourning. Residents are demanding increased security measures to prevent further acts of violence and to ensure the safety of the community.
Local authorities and security agencies will need to collaborate closely to investigate the incident, identify the culprits, and take appropriate actions to prevent such heinous crimes in the future. The residents of Rundele community deserve justice and the assurance that their safety is a top priority for the authorities.
Acts of violence and brutality have severe consequences for communities, instilling fear and disrupting the social fabric. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting innocent lives, and upholding justice.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the need for proactive measures to address security challenges in various communities across Nigeria. Efforts should be made to enhance community policing initiatives, strengthen intelligence gathering, and promote collaborations between security agencies and local residents to prevent criminal activities and maintain peace.
The state government, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, should intensify efforts to address the root causes of violence and insecurity, such as youth unemployment and poverty. By addressing these underlying issues, it is possible to create an environment that discourages criminal behaviour and promotes social harmony.
The families of the victims are left grieving and traumatised by the senseless loss of their loved ones. Support and counselling services should be provided to help them cope with their grief and heal from the trauma inflicted upon them.
The Rundele community, known for its resilience, will need to come together in solidarity to support the affected families and work towards rebuilding a sense of security and peace. It is through unity and collective efforts that communities can overcome adversity and emerge stronger.
The authorities must ensure that justice is served swiftly and that the perpetrators face the full force of the law. Such acts of violence should not go unpunished, as they undermine the fabric of society and erode trust in the justice system.