BAYELSA STATE POLICE COMMAND LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR BODMAS, OTHERS OVER DEATH PERESUODEI

The Bayelsa State Police Command says it has launched manhunt for Bodmas Prince Kemepade and members of his cohorts following reports that a 24-year-old man, Odutua Patrick Peresuodei, died from injuries allegedly sustained during an illegal arrest.

The incident has heightened tension across the state, with viral videos circulating on social media allegedly showing the young man being severely beaten before his death.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Musa Mohammed, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Iyamah Edebor, ordered a full-scale investigation to identify and arrest all those involved, assuring residents of Amassoma community that justice will be served.

According to the statement, on January 15, 2026, Bodmas, accompanied by security personnel said to be officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), allegedly arrested Peresuodei and his brother, Destiny, from their home over a Facebook post.

The statement further disclosed that upon arrival at the police station, officers observed that the two brothers had already sustained serious injuries, allegedly inflicted by those who carried out the arrest.

Police said investigations were immediately commenced, but Peresuodei was reportedly unable to speak coherently and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors later described his condition as critical and advised that his family take over his care.

Tragically, the statement added that Peresuodei died on January 30, two weeks after he was released to continue treatment.

The Command appealed to members of the public to remain calm, avoid speculation, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of hindering investigations or escalating public tension. It also urged individuals with useful and credible information to cooperate with the police to aid the ongoing probe.

The Police reiterated their commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the rule of law, assuring the public that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.

The statement follows earlier claims by Bodmas on his social media platforms, where he denied any involvement in Peresuodei’s death and expressed willingness to cooperate with police investigations.

Reported by Bright Okpo