By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested eight suspects—six men and two women—in connection with the abduction of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, who was kidnapped on June 21, 2025. The arrests were announced during a public parade in Yenagoa on Thursday.
The operation, which led to the successful rescue of the judge, was jointly carried out by the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, and the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adedapo Amao.
The suspects are currently in DSS custody following a coordinated manhunt. However, the gang leader remains at large, as revealed by Governor Douye Diri during Wednesday’s State Executive Council meeting.
Governor Diri reaffirmed the state’s resolve to eradicate criminal activity, attributing the breakthrough to intensified security strategies.
One of the suspects, identified as Justice Brodrick from Ozobo in Delta State, confessed to journalists that he was recruited by a man he referred to as his “boss.” According to Brodrick, the group—armed with uniforms and vehicles—abducted the judge from an eatery in the Ekeki area of Yenagoa and took him to a hideout in a neighboring state.
Brodrick claimed the judge was not a predetermined target, stating, “We were just patrolling before we met the judge at Kilimanjaro [restaurant].” He added that once he discovered the judge was Ijaw from Ekeremor, he pleaded for him to be treated better, although the group leader insisted on restraining the victim with handcuffs.
Another suspect, identified as John, admitted he had been contacted to participate but said he did not join the operation due to illness. However, he confirmed he was present at the camp when the judge was brought in.
Commissioner Idu hailed the arrests as a testament to the effectiveness of Governor Diri’s security initiatives. He credited the state-installed CCTV cameras and a special DSS tactical team deployed from Abuja for aiding the operation.
“Bayelsa is no longer a safe haven for criminals,” Idu declared.
The rescue and subsequent arrests have boosted public confidence in the state’s security framework. Local residents expressed relief and praised the government’s investment in surveillance technology.
“The CCTV cameras are making a difference. Criminals can’t hide anymore,” said Amaka Ebi, a shop owner in Yenagoa.
Security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend the gang’s leader. Commissioner Idu assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit.
The incident highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration, with both the police and DSS pledging to sustain pressure on criminal elements to ensure Bayelsa remains safe for all residents.
