The Bayelsa State Police Command has taken swift action in response to the tragic shooting of a 40-year-old electrician, Benalayefa Bako Asiayei, over a dispute concerning a mere N200 along the Azikoro Road in Yenagoa, the state capital.
Asiayei, a native of Bobougbene community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, was returning home from work in his Toyota Sienna vehicle around 8:00 pm on Tuesday when the fatal incident occurred. Reports indicate that the policeman, attached to the Bayelsa State security outfit, Operation Doo Akpo, stopped Asiayei’s vehicle and demanded the customary N200 fee from motorists.
Tragically, Asiayei, who was carrying only one passenger, expressed his inability to meet the demand. In a shocking turn of events, the policeman allegedly escalated the situation by fatally shooting Asiayei at point-blank range, leaving him mortally wounded.
Eyewitnesses, including an individual identified as Zaiky, who arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting, raised the alarm upon discovering Asiayei’s lifeless body. The perpetrator, purportedly fleeing the scene in a patrol van, was reportedly identified by members of the crowd, who captured his image before he escaped.
Subsequent efforts by law enforcement led to the arrest of the policeman responsible for the heinous act. The Bayelsa State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, confirmed the arrest and assured that internal disciplinary measures would be taken following a thorough investigation.
The tragic incident has sparked outrage among Asiayei’s family and the community, who are demanding justice for the senseless loss of life. They have called upon Governor Douye Diri, the Inspector General of Police, and the Ijaw Youth Council to intervene and ensure that the perpetrator faces the full force of the law.
The swift action taken by the police command is a critical step towards restoring public confidence and upholding accountability within law enforcement agencies. It underscores the imperative of addressing police brutality and ensuring that those responsible for such reprehensible acts are held accountable for their actions.
