Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a wheelbarrow pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu, for allegedly killing a trader, Higightor Wenem, at the Oil Mill Market in Rumuokwurusi, Obio/Akpor LGA.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident occurred on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at around 7:00 a.m.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Wenem, a 30-year-old indigene of Mbagel Village, Buruku LGA, Benue State, had requested Afaaruwu to move his wheelbarrow to create space for his goods.
When the request was refused, an argument ensued, culminating in the trader being stabbed with a dagger.
The victim was rushed to the Military Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. His body has since been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.
The stabbing incident sparked tension between the Hausa and Benue communities in the area. Prompt intervention by police restored calm and prevented further escalation.
Afaaruwu is currently in police custody while investigations continue. The Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.
