Delta Police Arrest 15 Over Ozoro Festival Sexual Assault Scandal
Delta Police Expand Dragnet, Arrest 15 Over Ozoro Assaults
THE Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 15 suspects in connection with the alleged sexual assault of women during a recent festival in Ozoro community, Isoko North Local Government Area.
The arrests follow an intensified investigation into disturbing incidents that reportedly occurred in Oramudu Quarters, where several women were harassed and, in some cases, sexually assaulted during the event.
Police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday in Asaba, noting that the command had made significant progress in tracking down those involved.
Breakthrough Through Video Evidence, Intelligence
According to the police, the latest arrests were made after operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team carried out a detailed review of available video footage and intelligence reports.
Edafe explained that the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adeshina, had earlier directed a comprehensive investigation into the incident following public outrage and circulation of videos on social media.
“Acting on the directive, operatives analysed video evidence and intelligence, leading to the arrest of eleven additional suspects,” the statement said.
The newly arrested individuals include Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, Evidence Oguname, and six others whose identities were not immediately disclosed.
These arrests bring the total number of suspects currently in custody to 15.
Police Dismiss ‘Cultural Practice’ Narrative
Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that the acts were carried out by criminal elements who took advantage of the gathering to perpetrate violence.
The police were emphatic in rejecting claims that the assaults were tied to any legitimate cultural tradition in Ozoro.
Edafe stressed that such acts should not be misconstrued as part of community customs, describing them instead as outright criminality.
“The acts are not representative of any legitimate cultural practice of the Ozoro community,” he said.
Commitment to Justice for Victims
The Commissioner of Police condemned the incident in strong terms, assuring residents and the wider public that justice would be pursued diligently.
He reiterated the command’s resolve to identify all perpetrators and ensure they face prosecution in accordance with the law.
“The Commissioner condemns these acts entirely and reassures the public of the command’s resolve to secure justice for victims,” Edafe stated.
Authorities also called on victims and witnesses to come forward with credible information that could aid the ongoing investigation.
Public Cooperation Urged Amid Ongoing Probe
The police emphasised that community cooperation would be critical in ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.
Residents were urged to provide useful information while being assured of confidentiality and protection.
The Ozoro incident has continued to draw widespread concern, with many Nigerians demanding accountability and stronger safeguards during cultural gatherings.
As investigations continue, the police say more arrests may follow as they work to unravel the full extent of the incident and restore public confidence.
