The Rivers state police command has launched an investigation after six members of a family were found de@d in a locked room in Ogale Eleme on January 11 at about 3pm.
The police say one Godwin Ogosu ‘m’ of Ogale, Eleme, through a distress call, reported that his elder brother, wife and children who slept in the previous night have not woken up from sleep with the doors still locked.
In a swift response, Operatives of the Command attached to the Eleme Division, mobilized to the scene, and forced open the doors to the room and discovered their lifeless bodies. The victims identified as Theophilus Obele, ‘m’, 49yrs, Eunice Obele, f’, 35yrs, Saka Obele, m’, 18yrs, Peace Obele, f’, 14yrs, Nyimenka Obele,’m’, 7yrs and Abel Nwaka, ‘m’, 25yrs.
Confirming the incident to newsmen, CSP Grace Iringe-Koku, spokesperson of the command, said preliminary investigation suggests possible generator fume poisoning as the cause of de@th. The generator was reportedly left on in the parlour of the Victims.
She said the corpses have been deposited at Last Home Mortuary, Ebubu Eleme, for autopsy while Photographic evidence has been taken, and investigation is ongoing.
She further stated that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has directed a thorough investigation into the incident. He further advised residents that when using generator, always place it in a well ventilated outdoor area, away from doors, windows and vents rather than in parlours, garages, sheds, or partially enclosed spaces as this is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide. Prioritize your safety and those around you.