Residents of Owube Kingdom in Ahoada West Local Government Area on Monday trooped out to celebrate the killing of Izuma David Odiereke, aka Solution, a notorious cult leader terrorising the area.

A statement by the Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), SP. Grace Iringe-Koko, said Solution had long been on the wanted list of the police.

The kingpin met his end in a gun battle with law enforcement officers in a forest within the Local Government Area around 4am.

At the Ahoada Area Command, where Odiereke’s body was brought, the Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, said the command declared him wanted in 2016 following many killings attributes to him.

He 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 LGA. Despite his attempts to evade capture, the command maintained relentless pursuit, eventually leading to his neutralization,” he added.

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 for their dedication and urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.

Disu also expressed gratitude to 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.

Ben Eke, Chairman of Ahoada East LGA, expressed his satisfaction, saying the fear would reduce criminality in the area

He said: “Even though he is from Ahoada West and was neutralized there, the ripple effects of reduced criminality will benefit my LGA.”

The paramount ruler, Seji Erbenezer of Owube community, Odiereke’s hometown, said the community had been relieved following his death.

He said: “The community is relieved. This young man has been a terror, engaging in serial killings, kidnappings, and notorious cult activities.”

The statement said the Rivers State Police Command remained committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. (Courtesy, excluding headline, The Nation)

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