POLICEMAN KILLED IN BAYELSA AS HOODED ROBBERS STRIKE, POLICE RAID SPARKS FEAR IN YENAGOA

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

A police officer, Obot Godwin, was killed in the Amarata area of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, on Tuesday morning while attempting to buy medicine.

According to eyewitnesses, Obot was attacked by suspected robbers who dispossessed him of his phone. He reportedly pleaded with the assailants to return the device before being struck on the head, leading to his death on the spot.

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Following the killing, security operatives launched a massive raid in Amarata and surrounding areas, including OMPADEC Street. Residents reported that officers broke into homes, fired shots into the air, and made indiscriminate arrests. Schoolchildren and other residents were allegedly tear-gassed during the operation, forcing many families and traders to flee for safety.

The densely populated neighbourhood has long battled violent crimes and cult-related clashes, with locals accusing security agencies of neglecting the area until the policeman’s death.

One resident said, “Windows were smashed during the raid. The community has been left in fear of further violence.” Another added that even local chiefs and business owners were arrested.

Priye Julius, a broadcaster with Radio Bayelsa, confirmed the situation, noting that the area was calm by midday but tension remained high.

When contacted, Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, described the incident as a “serious matter” but assured that investigations were underway to apprehend the killers.

“The area is calm. Police teams are on the ground and investigation is ongoing,” he stated.

The killing and subsequent police crackdown have heightened fears of a possible breakdown of law and order in Yenagoa.