Police confirm murder at Port Harcourt market, probe dispute over trading space
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred on Saturday at about 7am at the popular Fruit Market, Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt. The incident reportedly
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred on Saturday at about 7am at the popular Fruit Market, Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt.
The incident reportedly caused panic within the market, leading to the destruction of goods valued at millions of naira.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command said preliminary investigations showed that the incident followed a disagreement over space allocation.
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According to the police, a trader attempting to create additional space for his goods asked a wheelbarrow pusher, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, to remove his wheelbarrow, which was obstructing the area.
The statement said: "The request was refused, and an argument ensued. In the course of the disagreement, the wheelbarrow pusher allegedly stabbed the trader, identified as Higightor Wenem ‘m’ aged 30 years, from Mbagel Village, Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, with a dagger.
"The victim was immediately rushed to the Military Hospital for medical attention but was confirmed dead by the medical Doctor his corpse has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.
"The incident led to tension and pandemonium between members of the Hausa and Benue communities in the area. However, prompt intervention by police operatives restored calm and prevented further breakdown of law and order".
The statement said the suspect was arrested and was in police custody while investigation continued.
"The situation is now under control, and monitoring of the area is ongoing. Further developments will be communicated .
"The command assures members of the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state and urges residents to remain calm and law-abiding", thw statement said.
