Tragic Accidental Shooting Claims Life of Police Inspector, Injures Another in Rivers State

A devastating incident occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, when a police inspector accidentally discharged his firearm inside a moving vehicle, killing one colleague and seriously injuring another in Onne, Rivers State.

The suspect, Inspector Victor Okus, who is attached to Hintex Logistics (a multinational company) under the supervision of the 19 Police Mobile Force, was traveling from Life Camp to the officers’ official quarters around 1:00 pm when the firearm reportedly went off due to negligent handling.

Here are some typical scenes of Nigerian Police Mobile Force officers on patrol and in vehicles, illustrating the kind of operational context involved:

According to an official police signal relayed by Inspector Mathew Bawa through DSP Chika Njoku, Commander of the Port Harcourt Mine Unit, the accidental discharge struck two officers from the 14 Police Mobile Force, Yola, who were riding in the same vehicle.

The victims were rushed to Nobsams Hospital in Trans-Amadi for emergency treatment. Sadly, medical staff later confirmed the death of Inspector Ibrahim Sani, while Inspector Daniel Daudaremains under treatment and is receiving care.

Here are examples of hospital facilities in the Port Harcourt area where such emergencies are typically handled:

Immediately after the incident, Inspector Okus was disarmed, declared a defaulter, and detained at the Trans-Amadi Divisional Headquarters pending a full investigation.

Police authorities have assured the public that further details will be released as the inquiry continues. This unfortunate event highlights ongoing concerns about firearm safety and handling among security personnel during routine movements.