In a decisive crackdown on crime, the Bayelsa State Police Command has apprehended the abductors of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, a judge of the Bayelsa State High Court.
Governor Douye Diri announced the arrests during a state executive council meeting in Yenagoa on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, while also honoring Superintendent of Police, Sentome Obi for rejecting a $17,000 bribe offered by a suspect.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Justice Omukoro was kidnapped on June 21, 2025, outside a popular eatery, Kilimanjaro, in Yenagoa.
He endured 12 days in captivity before being freed through a coordinated operation by security agencies. Governor Diri revealed that all suspects involved in the kidnapping, except the gang’s leader who remains at large, have been arrested. “We have a zero-tolerance policy for crime in Bayelsa,” Diri declared.
“Our enhanced security measures, including drones and CCTV cameras across the state capital, enabled us to secure the judge’s safe release.”
Diri emphasized his administration’s commitment to making Bayelsa inhospitable to criminals, noting that technological advancements like drones and CCTV installations have bolstered crime-fighting efforts.
“We provided security agencies with the necessary logistics to ensure the judge’s release unharmed, and we will continue to strengthen our security architecture,” he said, commending the police and other agencies for maintaining peace in the state.
*Honoring Integrity*
During the meeting, Governor Diri celebrated SP Obi, a Bayelsa native, for his integrity in rejecting a $17,000 bribe. Describing Obi as a beacon of honor, Diri stated, “At a time when the Nigerian Police face public scrutiny, SP Obi has shown that integrity is worth more than wealth, bringing pride to both Bayelsa and the Force.”
The governor announced rewards for Obi, including a three-bedroom flat and a car, and recommended him to the Inspector General of Police for promotion.
Bayelsa Police Commissioner Francis Idu praised Obi as a model officer, saying, “SP Obi’s dedication reflects the caliber of professionals we aim to nurture in the Force.” Idu also urged the government to further invest in security measures to safeguard lives and property.
Diri encouraged other officers to emulate Obi’s example, adding, “His actions have not only elevated Bayelsa’s reputation but also enhanced the image of the Nigerian Police.”
