Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa on Sunday described the untimely death of 12 policemen serving with the Bayelsa Command as most tragic, shocking and disheartening.
In a condolence message to the Inspector General of Police, Dickson noted that the incident occurred while they were on active service to the nation.
The policemen were killed on Friday by suspected militants in Bayelsa waterways while on escort duties.
He said that the development was a constant reminder of “how vulnerable we are in our collective efforts at pursuing and achieving lasting peace and unity in our state and country’’.
Dickson eulogised the deceased officers for displaying outstanding qualities in their dedication and commitment to duty as well as patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the people.
While describing their untimely demise as a great loss to the state, the police and the nation in general, the governor expressed satisfaction with their positive attributes of service to the nation.
Dickson expressed the condolences of the government and people of Bayelsa to the entire Police Force and the families of the deceased.
He prayed that God should grant the bereaved families the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.