A somber atmosphere enveloped the popular Fruit Market at Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, on Saturday morning after a 30-year-old trader was allegedly stabbed to death following a heated argument with a wheelbarrow pusher.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred at approximately 7:00 a.m. on 14 February 2026. The victim has been identified as Mr. Higightor Wenem, an indigene of Mbagel Village in the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to preliminary investigations conducted by the police, the fatal confrontation began when Mr. Wenem attempted to create additional space to display his merchandise. He reportedly requested a wheelbarrow pusher, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, to relocate his wheelbarrow, which was obstructing the area.
The request was met with a refusal, sparking a verbal altercation that rapidly escalated. In the ensuing disagreement, Afaaruwu allegedly drew a dagger and stabbed the trader.
Despite being rushed immediately to the Military Hospital for emergency medical intervention, Mr. Wenem was tragically confirmed dead upon arrival by the attending physician. His remains have since been deposited at the morgue pending an autopsy.
The news of the killing triggered immediate pandemonium, sparking significant tension between members of the Hausa and Benue communities within the market vicinity. Observers reported a state of panic as traders scrambled to secure their goods amidst fears of a reprisal.
However, the Rivers State Police Command acted swiftly to prevent a total breakdown of law and order.
“Prompt intervention by police operatives restored calm and prevented further escalation,” stated CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer. “The suspect was apprehended at the scene and remains in police custody as investigations continue. The situation is now under control, and we are maintaining a heightened presence in the area to ensure ongoing stability.”
The Command has issued a strong appeal to residents and market stakeholders to remain law-abiding and refrain from taking the law into their own hands. CSP Iringe-Koko reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served, while assuring the public of the police’s dedication to maintaining security across the state.
Local community leaders have also been engaged to mediate and ensure that the isolated criminal act does not devolve into wider communal friction.
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