The Bayelsa State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the gruesome death of a commercial driver affiliated with Bolt, a popular digital transport service operating in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The lifeless body of the middle-aged driver, whose identity is yet to be officially disclosed, was discovered early Friday morning inside his vehicle at the Samphino Road junction in the Kpansia suburb of Yenagoa.
Eyewitnesses and residents who stumbled upon the disturbing scene raised the alarm, prompting a swift response from law enforcement officers who quickly cordoned off the area. Preliminary accounts suggest the victim may have been shot at close range by suspected armed robbers, possibly in an attempt to steal his car or other personal valuables.
Although details remain sketchy, unconfirmed reports indicate the attackers might have booked the ride using the Bolt mobile application, a tactic that raises growing concerns over the safety of drivers working with ride-hailing platforms in the state.
The incident has sparked renewed anxiety among residents and commercial drivers in Yenagoa, coming barely 24 hours after the Bayelsa State Government donated 31 operational vehicles to various security agencies to strengthen efforts in combating crime across the state.
Reacting to the incident, a senior police official who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that a full-scale investigation is underway. “We are working to gather all necessary intelligence. Forensic teams have been deployed to the scene and we are also liaising with the Bolt company to retrieve trip data that may help in tracking down the culprits,” the source said.
Meanwhile, members of the drivers’ union and other stakeholders have called on the police to expedite their investigation and ensure that those behind the murder are brought to justice.
As of press time, the Bayelsa State Police Command had not issued an official statement, but the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or persons in their communities.
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