Three persons, a former corps member, a student of the University of Port Harcourt and his girlfriend, were Thursday night killed by unknown gunmen in Rumuchakara, Choba community, near the university.

Saturday Tribune gathered that the victims had gone out to celebrate the passing out of the former member of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), who concluded his service same Thursday.

According to sources in the area, the victims’ car had run into a road side store as they were suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and had alighted from the car to discuss with the owner of the store.

It was during an argument that ensued that a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) reportedly pulled over nearby and the occupants opened fire on the trio.

They were said to have died on the spot.

“The corps member and his friends were drunk while driving and their vehicle rammed a shop, and there was an argument between them and the owner of the shop.

“Within a short time, a group of men in an SUV came out and fired shots at the three persons, who died on the spot. The gunmen immediately drove away without any challenge,” a source said.

Confirming the incident, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Ben Ugwuegbulam (DSP), said security agencies had begun investigation into the matter.

Ugwuegbulam, who stated that the incident occurred around 9.30 p.m., assured that those behind the killing would be brought to book.