Manhunt Underway for Gunmen in Rivers State Who Murdered Woman

The police in Rivers State have commenced an inquiry into the fatal shooting of a young woman named Special Bensington. The victim was tragically killed while heading back to her home in Elimgbu, Port Harcourt.

This unfortunate event took place on Saturday, March 21.

Bensington, along with her companion, referred to only as Divine Anyanwu, had taken a Bolt ride from a hotel located on Emmanuel Road, adjacent to Odili Road, when they became victims of the attack.

Reports indicate that as they traveled in the Total Gospel vicinity, unknown assailants, who are believed to have followed them from the hotel, opened fire on their vehicle. The attackers were allegedly riding a tricycle.

Both women sustained gunshot wounds and were immediately transported to BMH Hospital in Port Harcourt. Unfortunately, Anyanwu was confirmed deceased by a medical professional shortly after their arrival.

CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, verified the occurrence in a statement released on Thursday, noting that the case has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough examination.

She stated, “The Rivers State Police Command is conducting an investigation into this gruesome murder in Port Harcourt. On March 21, 2026, around 4:30 PM, an account was provided by Miss Divine Anyanwu of No. 9 Aliobi Drive, indicating that she and her friend, Special Bensington, had taken a Bolt ride from a hotel on Emmanuel Road, off Odili Road, Port Harcourt.

"While traveling through the Total Gospel area, they were reportedly ambushed by unidentified armed men suspected to have tailed them from the hotel. The attackers, on a tricycle, fired upon the victims. During the incident, the victim suffered gunshot wounds.

"She was immediately rushed to BMH Hospital, where she was ultimately declared dead by the attending physician while receiving medical care.

"Following this report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Division, along with his team, visited both the site of the crime and the hospital. The deceased has been placed in the mortuary pending autopsy.

"The investigation has been transferred to the SCID for discreet forensic analysis. Efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the individuals responsible.

"The Command vehemently denounces this heinous act and assures the community that those accountable will face justice.

"We encourage any members of the public with pertinent information to step forward to assist in this investigation.

"The Command will provide updates as the investigation advances.”