Young people from Biogbolo-Epie community, Bayelsa State, have erected roadblocks in Yenagoa, capital of the state, in protest over the death of Goodluck Oviekeme Izigwe in police custody.

The road to Mbiama-Yenagoa and the Isaac Boro highway are impassable for vehicles, as the youths station canopies there and burn tyres.

According to the protesting youths, 27-year-old Izigwe was tortured to death following arrest by officers of the Operation Puff Adder, Bayelsa Police Command.

However, Asinim Butswat, spokesman for the Bayelsa police, said Izigwe was arrested for masterminding an armed robbery which led to the death of a police officer.

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Butswat also said Echeng Echeng, Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, has ordered a discreet investigation to establish the cause of the suspect’s death.

“The Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Echeng E. Echeng has ordered a discreet investigation and autopsy to determine the cause of the death of  Goodluck Oviekeme ‘m’, 27 years,” the statement partly reads.

“The deceased suspect was arrested in connection with the armed robbery incident that occurred on 21 September, 2021, at Biogbolo, Yenagoa, when hoodlums attacked a police patrol team, fatally injured Inspector Ugbotor Sunday and carted away his rifle.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that Goodluck Oviekeme was the mastermind of the attack on the patrol team. He was arrested on 22 September, 2021, at about 03:00 hours. While in police custody, the suspect was observed to be running a high temperature and was rushed to the hospital where he eventually died.

“The CP condoles with the family of the deceased and assures the general public that investigation has commenced and the outcome will be made public.”