Law enforcement seizes handgun in Bayelsa, pursues escaped narcotics suspects

A significant recovery was made by the Bayelsa State Police Command, with a locally made pistol being seized after suspected drug users fled from a patrol team in Yenagoa, the state capital, on Friday, July 4, at approximately 2:00 p.m.

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The recovery occurred when operatives from the Ekeki Divisional Headquarters were conducting a routine patrol along Osiri Road in the Tombia area, where they observed a group of youths allegedly consuming illicit substances.

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Upon spotting the police patrol team, the suspects quickly fled the scene, leaving behind a locally made pistol that was subsequently recovered by the operatives, according to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, on Tuesday.

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The statement detailed that on July 4, 2026, at around 1400 hours, the operatives attached to the Ekeki Divisional Headquarters observed the group of youths taking illicit drugs, and upon sighting the police, they abandoned one locally made pistol, which was then recovered.

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Investigations into the incident have commenced, with efforts currently underway to apprehend the suspects who fled the scene, as confirmed by the police spokesperson, who stated that "Investigation has commenced, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects."

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The Bayelsa State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to proactive policing, with DSP Musa Mohammed urging residents to continue providing credible information to support the combat against crime and enhance public safety across the state.

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The command's commitment to proactive policing is evident in its recent intensification of intelligence-led patrols and stop-and-search operations across Yenagoa and other parts of the state, aimed at curbing violent crime, cult-related activities, and the proliferation of illegal firearms.

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Security agencies have consistently warned that the abuse of illicit drugs among youths is a contributing factor to the rising cases of armed robbery, cult clashes, and other violent crimes, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and cooperation from the public.

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The police have encouraged residents to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing crime prevention efforts, which is crucial in maintaining public safety and reducing violent crime across communities.

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The Nigeria Police Force has maintained its campaigns focused on recovering illegal weapons from circulation, emphasizing that the removal of illicit firearms is critical to improving public safety and reducing violent crime across communities.