The Bayelsa State Police Command has intensified its investigation into the death of Patrick Peresoudei with the interrogation of four personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, who were allegedly involved in events leading to his death. The police said the officers accompanied a suspect, Bodmas Kemepadei, during Peresoudei’s arrest before he reportedly died after being subjected to torture.
According to the police, the NSCDC personnel accompanied Kemepadei to Amassoma Community, where Peresoudei was arrested. After his arrest, Peresoudei was allegedly taken to Kemepadei’s residence in Yenagoa. The police stated that Peresoudei was reportedly tortured at the residence before his eventual death.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that the interrogation of the NSCDC personnel is part of efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Command emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that all individuals linked to the case will be thoroughly examined.
In addition to questioning the NSCDC officers, the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, is also interrogating members of the investigating team attached to Operation Restore Peace, also known as Operation Puff Adder. The police said this step is necessary to ensure that every aspect of the case is reviewed and that no relevant detail is overlooked.
The Command stated that it remains committed to conducting a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the death of Patrick Peresoudei. The police stressed that the goal of the investigation is to uncover the truth surrounding the incident and to ensure accountability where necessary.
The police further assured the public that all suspects allegedly involved in the incident will be fully investigated. The Command said that anyone found culpable after the investigation will be prosecuted in accordance with the law, without favoritism or bias.
Meanwhile, the police have declared that the prime suspect, Bodmas Kemepadei, is currently at large. The Command disclosed that its intelligence network has been activated to locate and arrest Kemepadei. Efforts are ongoing to track his whereabouts and ensure he is brought in for questioning.
The Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa State, CP Iyamah Daniel, reiterated the Command’s commitment to justice in the case. He appealed to members of the public for their continued support and understanding as the investigation progresses.
The police also urged members of the public to volunteer any useful information that could assist in the investigation. The Command said such information would be treated with confidentiality and could be crucial in resolving the case.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command. The Command reassured residents of the state that it is determined to uphold the rule of law and maintain public confidence in the policing system.
The police added that updates would be provided as the investigation continues and as significant developments emerge in the case.
