Police arrest eight suspects over death of six officers

Etim Ekpimah

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested eight suspects over their involvement in the death of six police officers who were on a fact-finding and rescue mission.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, in a statement on Saturday, 30 March 2024, said the incident happened in Ughelli, Delta State where the officers were ambushed.

He said: “The Nigeria Police Force has made significant progress in the investigation into the tragic incident that occurred in Ughelli, Delta State on 23rd February 2024, where officers on a fact-finding mission were ambushed, and on 26th February 2024, where other officers on a rescue mission were also ambushed, resulting in the death of six policemen, while six others are still missing in action.

“Following intensive investigative efforts, the police have apprehended eight (8) suspects in connection with the brutal ambush attack. Five (5) suspects were initially arrested shortly after the incident, and an additional three (3) suspects were arrested at different locations, following the statements and cooperation of the initially arrested suspects, bringing the total number of arrests to eight (8).”

According to him, the suspects are currently in custody and are assisting with the ongoing investigation.

“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all those responsible for this reprehensible act, and many alike, are brought to justice swiftly and decisively.

The police assures that the suspects will soon have their day in court, with credible evidence, once investigations are concluded,” he added.

He noted that the Nigeria Police Force is deeply saddened by the heinous act of violence against our officers who were diligently performing their duty to protect and serve the community.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen officers during this difficult time. “We wish to reiterate that killers of our officers in this extant case, and many others, have murdered peace, and none of them will go unpunished,” he stated.