There was pandemonium in the Polako community in Yenagoa local government area of Bayelsa State following the invasion of the venue of a wake-keep by unidentified gunmen who shot dead a 37-year-old man and abducted a popular Ijaw musician, Pereama Freetown.
The 37-year-old, identified as Ebikabowei Umbu, was reportedly killed by a stray bullet during the abduction of the musician, sources confirmed.
The incident occurred in the wee hours of yesterday at the community wake-keep arena.
A musician, Freetown, was on stage entertaining the crowd when the gunmen stormed the place and embarked on shooting spree to scare away the natives.
Based on what was gathered, the deceased Umbu was hit by the invaders’ bullet as the gunmen made their way back to their speedboat with their victim.
When contacted, the state police public relations officer, Mr. Asinim Bustwat, confirmed the incident, saying “at about 0300hrs today (Sunday), some unknown gunmen invaded Polako Community in Yenagoa LGA, and abducted one Pereama Freetown, a popular musician.
“While escaping with the victim, the unknown gunmen shot sporadically, killing one Ebikabowei Umbu, 37 years.
“They escaped through the Polako River to an unknown destination. The Marine Police, Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Operation Pulo Shield have swung into action in search of the victim and arrest of the suspects.”