A combined team of operatives from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Anti-Cultism Unit of the Bayelsa State Police Command on Tuesday stormed Kolo community in Ogbia Local Government Area, arresting a 47-year-old cripple and five others over the alleged bloody assault of a community vigilante member.
The cripple, identified as Okpara Balami, was accused of leading an armed gang of youths in Kolo community. He has long been suspected of involvement in terrorism, cult-related violence, and multiple attacks against residents and police personnel.
Community sources alleged that during a recent scuffle, Balami ordered his gang to assault a vigilante operative, sparking outrage and prompting the police operation. The suspects were apprehended in a joint raid led by CSP Bishop Elemide of the RRS, CSP Nsimo Benson of the Anti-Cultism Unit, officers from the Kolo Divisional Police Headquarters, and members of the Community Development Committee. The operation also received aerial support.
During the raid, security operatives searched the suspects’ hideout—described as their anchor point—and recovered a pistol and several dangerous machetes. However, one suspect reportedly escaped.
Speaking on the development, a member of the Kolo Vigilante Group who pleaded anonymity said the arrests were long overdue. “These individuals have been notorious for cultism, assault, and repeated attacks on police personnel in our community,” he stated.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Musa Mohammed, confirmed the operation but said he was yet to receive a full briefing on the details.
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