Bayelsa Outrage as 24-Year-Old Dies Days After Police Release

Family alleges torture while in custody; police launch full-scale investigation amid public outcry.

Patrick Peresousdei, 24, has died days after being released from a Bayelsa State Police detention facility, sparking public outrage and calls for an independent investigation.

While the Bayelsa Police Command maintains that Patrick was brought in with pre-existing injuries, his younger brother, Destiny Peresousdei, claims the deceased was tortured during custody. Destiny alleged that both he and Patrick were assaulted by Bodmas Kemepadei and personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) before being handed over to the police.

Speaking in a video obtained during a fact-finding visit by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado Nimizigha, Destiny described the ordeal: “At Bodmas’ house, some boys came out, lifted us, threw us on the floor, tied our hands and legs, and beat us for close to three hours. They used planks and machetes. We were bleeding before they finally took us to Operation Puff Adder.”

Patrick was reportedly held without formal charges and released to a family member for medical attention after being found incoherent. He later developed breathing difficulties and died on January 28 despite visits to multiple hospitals, including tertiary facilities in Port Harcourt. Destiny stated that the police never took Patrick to a clinic, and the family bore the responsibility for his medical care.

Civil society groups have demanded an independent probe into the circumstances of Patrick’s arrest, detention, and death.

Bayelsa Police Launch Investigation

The Bayelsa State Police Commissioner, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, has ordered a comprehensive investigation. A statement by DSP Musa Mohammed, Police Public Relations Officer, said:

“Preliminary investigations reveal that on January 15, 2026, Patrick and his brother Destiny were arrested at their residence by Bodmas Prince Kemepade and NSCDC personnel over an alleged threat posted on Facebook. Bruises were reportedly observed upon arrival at the station. Patrick was incoherent and taken to the police clinic for medical attention before being released to relatives. Subsequent reports indicate Patrick passed away on January 28, 2026.”

The police have launched a manhunt for Bodmas Kemepadei and his associates and urged the public to provide credible information while avoiding speculation that could hinder investigations. The Command reiterated its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the rule of law.