Tompolo’s Associates Nabbed As Hunt For Militants Continues

Security operatives have arrested two associates of militant leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo. The guys - Simon Bebenimibo and Bomboy Oluba - were arrested on Monday in an operation reportedly carried out by troops.
Security sources said the operation, which was part of a special search for the men and leaders of the Niger Delta Avengers, was executed after a careful planning and a period of trailing the suspects.

A reliable security source said the troops stormed the suspects’ hideout at about 11am on Monday.

“We stormed the hideout after intelligence revealed their abode. We have been on their trail for a while now but executed their arrests on Monday”, the source added.

Also confirming the development last night, Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) spokesman Eric Omare said he was informed that the suspects were still being detained.

Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI) spokesman Mr Daniel Ezekiel also confirmed the arrest.

But he castigated the military for breaking into a member’s home through the roof and arresting him without a court warrant.

"We condemn the military action of breaking through the roof of Simeon Bebenimibo's house to gain unauthorised access into his privacy without a court warrant to arrest him, as such amount to kidnapping and abduction.

"This is barbaric, obnoxious, unlawful and incivility. The military has no such powers except empowered by a valid court warrant. It is so sad and we are disappointed”, he said.

The gallant soldiers said all those involved in criminality would be caught, no matter how long.