The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested the abductors of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court, weeks after his kidnapping in Yenagoa.
Governor Douye Diri announced the breakthrough on Wednesday during the state executive council meeting at Government House, Yenagoa. He also used the occasion to honour Superintendent of Police Sentome Obi, who rejected a $17,000 bribe from a suspect during the investigation.
Justice Omukoro was abducted on June 21 in front of a popular eatery in Yenagoa and held for 12 days before being rescued by a joint security operation.
Governor Diri confirmed that all suspects involved in the crime had been arrested, except for the gang leader who remains at large. He reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy for crime and warned criminals to stay away from Bayelsa.
“We have greatly improved our crime-fighting efforts using technology. In the recent kidnap of a serving judge in the state, we were able to secure his release unharmed. All those who committed the crime were apprehended except one still on the run,” Diri said.
He credited the success to the coordinated effort of security agencies and the state’s investment in surveillance infrastructure, including drones and CCTV installations across Yenagoa.
Commending SP Obi for his integrity and dedication, the governor described him as a shining example of honesty in law enforcement. “At a time when the Nigerian Police is battling image issues, Bayelsa has produced an officer who brought pride to both the state and the Force,” he said.
Governor Diri announced a three-bedroom flat and a car as a reward for Obi’s exemplary service and recommended him to the Inspector General of Police for promotion.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa, Mr Francis Idu, praised the governor for recognising outstanding officers and called for more government investment in security infrastructure to further protect lives and property.
