Gunmen Ambush Banana Monarch in Khana, Police Launch Manhunt

Tension rippled through parts of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State over the weekend after unknown gunmen ambushed and shot the Paramount Ruler of Bangha Community, His Royal Majesty, King T.Y. Baridam, in a brazen attack that has prompted a full-scale police investigation.

The incident occurred as the traditional ruler was returning from a community meeting in Okwale when his vehicle was intercepted along Tekar Sogho Road, a route linking the area to the East–West Road. Police said the assailants reportedly emerged suddenly from nearby bushes and opened fire on the monarch’s convoy, damaging the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle.

During the attack, King Baridam sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh and was immediately taken to a medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Confirming the incident, the Rivers State Police Command said it had deployed patrol teams to the area shortly after the attack to comb the surroundings and track down the perpetrators. 

The Command’s spokesperson, Chief Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, said the police had commenced a detailed investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed that no effort be spared in identifying and arresting those responsible for this attack,” Iringe-Koko said, adding that security presence has been reinforced in the area.

She further appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid the investigation.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear as at the time of filing this report, but the incident has heightened concerns over the safety of traditional rulers and community leaders in the area.

Police authorities assured that those behind the assault would be brought to justice, as investigations continue into what they described as a serious breach of peace and security in Khana LGA.