Three Cops Detained for Killing Colleague in Bayelsa

Emmanuel Addeh in Yenagoa
Three policemen have been arrested in connection with the shooting of their colleague over a N20,000 ‘gift’ in Bayelsa after offering security services during a funeral service.

The deceased, Mr. Salvation Adaka, a Police Sergeant attached to the Agudama-Epetiama Divisional Command, Bayelsa State, was reportedly shot dead during an argument over the sharing of the largesse.

Family of the deceased police Sergeant led by Morris Alagoa, in a petition, said the deceased policeman was shot dead at close range by colleague.

The assailants attempted to dump the victim’s corpse in a bush before their plan was thwarted by the Indigenes of the community who raised the alarm, the family alleged.

The family of deceased in the petition signed by Mr. Morris Alagoa, said the disputed money, which led to the killing of the deceased, was not a bribe,”but an appreciation for the security provided during the peaceful night burial ceremony held in Obunagha community.”

Adaka, who is an indigene of Ondewari community in Olodiama clan of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state, the family said, insisted that the money should be taken to the station before being shared.

“Preliminary investigation by the families  showed that the deceased and his colleagues spent a reasonable time within a wake-keep environment in Obunagha community and as they were leaving, they were given N20,000 in appreciation of their presence at maintaining peace and order.

“Being the most senior, the money was handed to him but the colleagues insisted on sharing the money.
“Salvation Adaka insisted that they wait until they get back to their station before sharing the money. This was confirmed by the DPO at the Agudama-Ekpetiama Police Station.

“Sadly, between Obunagha and Gbaraine-Ubie Integrated Gas Plant, he was shot at close range. They attempted to hide his corpse in the bush before they were discovered by passersby, including the Chairman of the IYC, Ekpetiama clan.”

The bereaved family noted that though three of the suspected colleagues have been arrested and detained, the bereaved family are of the view that unless strong demands and detailed investigation is conducted by the Inspector-General of Police, the suspects may be let off the hook.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Bayelsa, Asinim Butswat, was not available for comments, but a police source at the state command confirmed the arrest of the three policemen.

The deceased whose remains have been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, was survived by two wives and children.