Operatives of Nigeria Police Force have apprehended eight suspects believed to be connected to the killing of several policemen in the Ughelli region of Delta State.
This development occurred just one week after the apprehension of five individuals suspected of involvement in the officers’ killings.
Last Saturday, the police disclosed the identities of 12 officers, six of whom were reported as deceased while the remaining six were declared missing during a rescue operation in the state.
The officers, comprising 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.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the officers fell into an ambush by armed assailants during an operation to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three colleagues in Ohoro Forest in the state.
He further mentioned that five suspects had been apprehended in connection with the officers’ killings.
With the recent arrests, the number of suspects in police custody has now risen to 13.
Giving an update on the case in a statement on Saturday, Adejobi said the suspects are currently in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation.
He attributed the arrest to intensive investigative efforts by the operatives.
“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 added that all involved in the killing of the officers would be brought to book.
“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.