Attempted Murder of Inspector Ekperi Osuo, Operation Puff Adder Launches Investigation, Arrests Suspect After 4 Years in Bayelsa
Fresh developments have emerged in the alleged attempted murder of a serving police officer in Bayelsa State, as Operation Puff Adder has taken over investigations into the August 2022 shooting of Inspector Ekperi Edwin Osuo, with a suspect now in custody and awaiting arraignment.
This development follows renewed pressure, public attention, and a fresh petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, after earlier allegations that the case was compromised at the Zonal level.
Inspector Osuo, was shot and left for dead by unidentified gunmen along his street at Akenfa, Yenagoa, on August 21, 2022, during what police sources described as an armed robbery and attempted assassination.
He sustained life-threatening injuries and underwent emergency surgery, with pellets still reportedly lodged in his body over three years after the incident.
The case previously generated controversy following allegations that a key suspect linked to the crime was released under questionable circumstances after being handed over to the Nigeria Police Force by the military.
Credible sources now confirm that Operation Puff Adder, a special tactical and intelligence-driven unit of the Nigeria Police Force, has assumed control of the investigation.
A suspect connected to the case is currently in police custody and is expected to be arraigned in court, marking the first concrete prosecutorial step since the incident occurred.
Police sources described the move as part of efforts by the new commissioner of police to ensure a thorough, impartial, and intelligence-led investigation, given the sensitivity of the case and the status of the victim as a serving police officer.
Security analysts say the takeover by Operation Puff Adder signals renewed commitment by the Nigeria Police Force to address unresolved violent crimes, especially those involving attacks on its personnel.
They also note that the outcome of the case could set an important precedent.
Police authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and assured that the matter will be investigated thoroughly.
The case remains under close watch as Nigerians await the formal arraignment of the suspect and further disclosures from investigators…
