Rivers police recover 2Baba’s body from shallow grave
By Precious Igbonwelundu
late Gift Okpara alias 2Baba
Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have recovered the body of notorious terror kingpin, Gift Okpara alias 2Baba, alleged to have murdered a DPO in cold blood.
2Baba, who was on the wanted list of the police, was killed during a coordinated raid on his hideouts by security operatives in an operation led by Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, last week.
After falling to superior fire power, 2Baba was said to have been whisked away by his gang members fleeing the onslaught from the security forces.
Undeterred, police operatives, who had been on the search of the suspect and members of his gang, yesterday discovered his body in a shallow grave.
Spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the recovery of 2Baba’s body in a statement yesterday evening.
She said: “On Friday, February 23, 2024, based on credible information, our tactical operatives successfully located the shallow grave of Gift Okpara, also known as 2baba, a notorious Iceland cult leader in Ebrass, Ahoada West, Rivers State.
“We were able to recover the corpse of 2baba, who was responsible for the brutal murder of former DPO Ahaoda Division, late SP. Bako Angbashim, on September 8, 2023, in Odumude community, Ahoada East Local Government Area.”
Iringe-Koko said the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, expressed gratitude to sister security services, particularly the Nigerian Air Force, whose aerial strike on February 10 resulted in significant casualties among the gang, which facilitated the command’s subsequent operations.
“Furthermore, the Rivers State Police Command acknowledges and thanks the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fabura, for his unwavering support throughout this operation.
“His commitment to maintaining law and order in our state is commendable.
“I want to take this opportunity to commend the officers involved in this operation.
“They have shown extraordinary dedication and resilience.
“Their hard work and perseverance were driven by the expectations of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, who sought success in bringing 2baba and his gang to justice.
“My gratitude to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, for his unwavering support and invaluable advice throughout this operation.
“His guidance and leadership have been instrumental in our efforts to combat criminality and maintain peace and security in Rivers State.
“It is crucial for our citizens to recognise the importance of collaboration and support in our fight against crime.
“We urge the public to continue providing us with timely and accurate information that can aid in identifying and apprehending criminals.
“Together, we can create a safer environment for all.
“I want to assure the residents of Rivers State that the Rivers State Police Command remains committed to the safety and security of our state.
“We will continue our operations to apprehend other members of 2baba’s gang and dismantle any remaining criminal networks.
“We call on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.”
