Eight suspects allegedly involved in the killing of policemen in the Ughelli area of Delta State have been arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
This comes just a week after five individuals were taken into custody in connection with the officers’ murder.
Last Saturday, the police revealed the identities of 12 policemen, stating that six were murdered and six were still missing during a rescue operation in the state.
The officers, which included Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT), Inspector Friday Irorere, Sergeant Kuden Elisha, Sergeant Akpan Aniette, Sergeant Ayere Paul, and Sergeant Ejemito Friday, were ambushed on February 23 while on a rescue mission.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the police officers were attacked by armed individuals while on a mission to find and rescue three missing colleagues in Ohoro Forest.
Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the officers’ deaths, bringing the total number of suspects in police custody to 13.
Adejobi provided an update on the case in a statement on Saturday, mentioning that the suspects are currently helping with the investigation while in custody.
He credited the arrests to the diligent investigative work of the officers.
“The arrested 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 assured all that the suspects will soon have their day in court, with credible evidence, once investigations are concluded.
“The Nigeria Police 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,” he said.
Adejobi went on to say that all those implicated in the policemen’ deaths will face justice.
“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 vowed.
