…Suspect has been on Police Wanted List for 9 years
Juliana Francis
The Rivers State Police Command has neutralised Izuma David Odiereke, also known as Solution, a notorious cult leader operating in the Owube Kingdom, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The State’s Command spokesperson, a Superintendent of Police, Grace Iringe-Koko, said that Odiereke, who has long been on the wanted list of the Police, met his end in a gun battle with law enforcement officers in a forest within the Local Government Area at about 4:am on Monday.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, speaking on this latest achievement, said: “We have been under attack from him and his cult group for some time. The command declared him wanted in 2016 due to numerous killings attributed to him. He is a serial killer, and his criminal activities have rendered his clan deserted.
“The reign of terror perpetrated by Odiereke, came to an end when the command led a successful operation to his camp at Api Forest, situated between Odiereke Ubie and Joinkarama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area. Despite his attempts to evade capture, the command maintained relentless pursuit, eventually neutralising him.”
Disu listed over 10 individuals killed by Odiereke’s Greenland Cult during his reign of terror, including the notable paramount ruler, Sampson, who fell victim to the gangster on February 2, 2024.
He commended the officers of the Ahoada Area Command and Division who achieved this feat. He urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.
The CP also thanked the local community for their cooperation, providing crucial intelligence and credible information to aid law enforcement efforts.
In a show of solidarity, members of the Ahoada West community gathered to express their appreciation for the Rivers State Police Command’s efforts in restoring peace.
Mr Ben Eke Esq., Chairman of Ahoada East LGA, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Even though he is from Ahoada West and was neutralised there, the ripple effects of reduced criminality will benefit my LGA.”
The Paramount ruler, Seji Erbenezer of Owube community, Odiereke’s hometown, echoed a similar sentiment as he said: “The community is relieved. This young man has been a terror, engaging in serial killings, kidnappings, and notorious cult activities.”
Iringe-Koko said: “The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, and this successful operation marks a significant step forward in achieving that goal.”
