Tension gripped residents of Yenagoa on Saturday evening following the abduction of Justice E.G. Umokoro, a serving judge of the Bayelsa State High Court, by unidentified gunmen.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 7:00 p.m. near a well-known eatery in the bustling Ekeki area, situated along the Chief Melford Okilo Expressway.
The assailants reportedly intercepted the judge’s vehicle before forcing him into their getaway car and fleeing the scene.
The shocking abduction comes amid rising insecurity in Bayelsa State, where a recent surge in violent crimes — including armed robberies and cult-related killings — has left residents on edge.
Multiple fatalities have been reported in recent weeks due to escalating clashes between rival gangs.
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As of the time of filing this report, the Bayelsa State Police Command has not released any official statement regarding the judge’s abduction, leaving the public anxious for information.
The legal community and civil society organizations have already begun voicing concerns over the apparent lack of security for members of the judiciary, calling on the state government and law enforcement agencies to act swiftly.
The motive behind the kidnapping remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility. However, the incident marks yet another disturbing chapter in Bayelsa’s struggle with organized crime and insecurity.