The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested 26 suspects for various offences and recovered a stolen bus valued at about ₦145 million.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Iyamah Edebor, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Yenagoa, noting that the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to curb crime.
He said the operation aligns with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on zero tolerance for criminal activities nationwide.
“Our operations are intelligence-driven and targeted at dismantling criminal networks. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across Bayelsa State,” Edebor said.
Among the major recoveries, the police traced a stolen white Toyota Hiace bus, with registration number SAG 584 EA, to Lagos after it was allegedly taken from its owner.
According to the commissioner, the principal suspect, Anyankpele Ebiowei, was apprehended in Warri, and his arrest led to the capture of two other suspects identified as Alhaji Jibo Aluseyni, 60, and Hassan Mumuni, 48.
“Preliminary findings show that the suspects purchased the vehicle without proper documentation,” he said.
Edebor further revealed that the bus had been resold through another suspect, Sefiu Abbas, to a Lagos-based auto dealer, Alhaji Sikiru Jimoh, who is currently on the run.
“The vehicle was eventually recovered in Lagos by operatives of Operation Puff Adder. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect,” he added.
In a separate operation, three suspects—Lucky Boro, Tony Akpose, and Tari Lokosi—were arrested for alleged attempted armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms during a stop-and-search operation in Yenagoa.
“A locally made single-barrelled pistol was recovered from them,” Edebor stated.
The police also arrested Emmanuel Agadaga Akene based on credible intelligence, recovering another locally made firearm concealed in a polythene bag.
In another case, George John was taken into custody following an assault complaint by a student of Niger Delta University.
“A search of his residence led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, a battle axe, a machete, and other dangerous weapons,” the commissioner said.
Additionally, four suspects travelling in a Dangote Cement truck were intercepted along the East-West Road, where officers recovered two locally made double-barrelled guns and 18 rounds of live cartridges.
Edebor also confirmed the arrest of a suspected serial killer wanted by the Ebonyi State Police Command for multiple murder cases.
He urged residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
“Bayelsa is no longer a safe haven for criminals. We will continue to intensify our operations to rid the state of all forms of crime,” he assured.
The police added that all suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
