The Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has announced the arrest of those involved in the abduction of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of the State High Court, lauding the efforts of security forces for the safe rescue of the judge.
Justice Omukoro was kidnapped in Yenagoa on 21 June and held for nearly two weeks. Following coordinated operations involving various security agencies, he was released without injury. According to Governor Diri, all suspects tied to the case have been apprehended except for the gang leader, who remains on the run.
Speaking during a state executive council meeting in Yenagoa, Diri reaffirmed his administration’s tough stance on crime and highlighted the state’s recent investments in surveillance equipment, including drones and CCTV systems, to boost law enforcement efforts.
“Bayelsa has zero tolerance for criminality. We provided security agencies with the necessary logistics, and they delivered,” the governor stated.
In a separate development, Diri paid tribute to Superintendent of Police Sentome Obi, who declined a bribe of $17,000 from a suspect allegedly involved in an organ trafficking case.
Commending Obi’s integrity and dedication, Diri recommended him for promotion and awarded him a new car and a three-bedroom house on behalf of the state.
“In a time when the police face significant image challenges, SP Obi has shown that integrity is still possible in public service,” the governor said.
Bayelsa’s Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, echoed the governor’s sentiments, describing Obi as one of the most well-trained and principled officers in the force.
Idu also urged continued government support to strengthen the capacity of the police in maintaining law and order.
