The Rivers State Police Command has arrested some staff members of a hotel in Eagle Island, Port Harcourt, alongside friends of the deceased, Okorite Charles, who died under mysterious circumstances at the facility.
Charles, said to be in his mid-20s, reportedly died after he lodged at the hotel with some friends.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Karbolo, said the victim was allegedly pushed from an upper floor of the hotel, although the circumstances surrounding the incident remained unclear.
According to the police spokesperson, Charles was rushed to a hospital following the incident, where a medical doctor reportedly confirmed him dead.
Karbolo said the deceased’s friends later returned to the hotel and began protesting, attracting a crowd and creating tension in the area.
She said police operatives were quickly deployed to restore order and prevent the situation from escalating.
“The hotel staff on duty at the time of the incident, as well as the victim’s friends who were present with him, were arrested for questioning and investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death,” she said.
The police also restricted activities at the hotel pending the conclusion of investigations.
Meanwhile, the deceased’s brother, Mr Obomate, had earlier raised concerns over the circumstances of Charles’ death. He alleged that a doctor at the hospital noticed what appeared to be a stab wound on the deceased’s stomach.
He further claimed that the family suspected Charles might have been struck on the neck with an object before his death.
The police command said investigations were ongoing to establish what led to the young man’s death and determine whether anyone would be held responsible.
