Man arrested over murder of Bayelsa sand dealer

A 41-year-old man, Somkiemi Tommy, has been arrested over the alleged murder of a sand business operator, Thankgod Kalaba, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, November 9, 2026.

Iniedu said Kalaba was reportedly murdered after going to the river on October 29, 2026, with his body allegedly tied to a boat and submerged in the water.

Iniedu said the police commenced an investigation following a report about the victim’s disappearance and suspected murder.

"Preliminary findings indicated that the victim was allegedly trailed and murdered by Somkiemi Tommy, 41,” the statement read.

"Acting on the report, police operatives, in collaboration with Yenaka youths, successfully arrested the suspect,” Iniedu stated.

He added that Tommy was in police custody, while the command’s Criminal Investigation Department had commenced further investigations.