The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on suspects linked to the alleged sexual assault incidents in Oramudu Quarters, Ozoro, announcing the arrest of 11 additional persons.
In a statement issued on Saturday, seen by Securitynewsalert.com, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the latest arrests bring the total number of suspects in custody to 15 as investigations continue.
According to the statement, the arrests followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, who mandated the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the disturbing incident.
“Acting on this directive, operatives of CP-SAT conducted a thorough analysis of available video evidence and intelligence, which led to the arrest of eleven additional suspects,” Edafe said.
He identified some of the suspects as Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, and Evidence Oguname, alongside six others whose identities were not immediately disclosed.
The police spokesperson noted that preliminary findings suggest that the incident was carried out by criminal elements who took advantage of the situation to perpetrate acts of sexual violence.
“The Command reiterates that preliminary findings indicate that the unfortunate incident was perpetrated by criminal elements who exploited the situation to engage in acts of sexual violence, which are in no way representative of any legitimate cultural practice,” he stated.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police condemned the acts and assured the public of justice.
“The Command remains resolute in its determination to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Edafe quoted the CP as saying.
He further called on members of the public, especially victims and witnesses, to assist the investigation by providing credible information.
“Members of the public, particularly victims and witnesses, are once again encouraged to come forward with credible information that will aid ongoing investigations. The Command assures that all information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality,” the statement added.
