By Joy Yesufu
The Bayelsa State Police Command has dismissed one of its officers, Sergeant Obrientele Ebiarede, over his alleged involvement in the abduction of a High Court judge, Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro.
Ebiarede, a native of Foutorugbene community in Ekeremor Local Government Area, was declared a deserter in accordance with Section 398(1) of the Police Act and Regulations 2020, after failing to report for duty for over 30 days.
The command confirmed that he is on the run.
A statement issued on behalf of the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, revealed that the dismissed officer allegedly provided logistical support to the kidnappers.
Investigations led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo uncovered that a motorcycle used in the abduction was traced to Ebiarede. It was recovered during a raid at the residence of a key suspect, Emizibo Clement, also known as Obonor, in the Edepie area of Yenagoa.
Obonor, now in police custody, is said to be a landlord. Tenants reportedly expressed shock over his alleged role in the high-profile kidnapping.
Meanwhile, a combined team of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Operation Puff Adder has arrested eight suspects (six males and two females) linked to the crime.
The command has issued an internal signal to all state police commands and the 17 Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) zones nationwide, ordering the immediate arrest of Sergeant Ebiarede.
The Police Budget Office and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) have also been instructed to halt his salary.
Authorities have also confirmed that he receives payment through the Enugu State Police Command, which has now been directed to evict him from its barracks.
Justice Omukoro was abducted in June 2025 in Yenagoa and released after 13 days in captivity.
Although no ransom was reportedly paid, the abductors had initially demanded N300 million in foreign currency for his release.
Commissioner Idu, who paraded the suspects at the command headquarters, reiterated the police’s commitment to bringing all individuals involved in the crime to justice.
