“I Was Confused In The Kidnappers’ Den” — Justice Umokoro After 12 Days In Captivity, Police Arrest Three Suspects

The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with the abduction of Rt. Hon. Justice E.G. Umokoro of the Bayelsa State High Court, who was freed on Thursday after 12 harrowing days in captivity.

Justice Umokoro was abducted on Saturday, June 21, 2025, by gunmen who later demanded a ransom equivalent to N300 million in foreign currency. His release, however, was secured without any ransom payment, following coordinated tactical operations by security forces, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, and Operation Puff Adder led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo.

Confirming the development, the Director of DSS in Bayelsa, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and Commissioner of Police Francis Idu, jointly announced Thursday night that the judge was rescued unhurt. Security sources revealed that the suspects were traced to Ekeremor, the judge’s hometown, and that some of his relatives had reportedly pressured the abductors’ families, threatening dire consequences if the judge was not released.

Speaking after his release, Justice Umokoro, visibly exhausted, expressed profound gratitude. “I was beginning to get confused. I still cannot come to terms with the fact that I was kidnapped and kept in the forest, exposed to cold. I thank God I came out alive,” he said. “The kidnappers said I should have fallen critically ill. It’s an unforgettable experience.”

At the DSS headquarters in Yenagoa, Hon. Justice Daniel Ayah, President of the Bayelsa State Customary Court of Appeal, hailed the rescue as a product of joint efforts by security agencies, the judiciary, and the state government. He noted that three key suspects were apprehended, while others remain at large.

Bayelsa NBA Chairman, Barr. Clement Kekemeke, commended members of the judiciary and bar for their calm during the ordeal. He praised the resilience shown in the face of the disturbing situation.

Also reacting, State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, said the safe release of Justice Umokoro vindicated the state government’s investment in security and reaffirmed Bayelsa as a safe environment. She dismissed negative propaganda, applauding the swift and effective action of security agencies in securing the judge’s freedom.