The Delta State Police Command has arrested eleven more suspects in connection with the sexual assault incident reported in Ozoro, raising the total number of people in custody to fifteen.

The incident, which happened in Oramudu Quarters in Ozoro on Thursday, March 19, drew public attention after disturbing reports and videos surfaced online.

In a statement released on Saturday, March 21, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team was directed to carry out a detailed investigation into the matter.

Edafe explained that the team carefully reviewed video footage and gathered intelligence, which helped officers identify and arrest more suspects. Those arrested include Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, and Evidence Oguname, along with six others.

He confirmed that the latest arrests have increased the total number of suspects currently in custody to fifteen.

The police also addressed claims linking the incident to a cultural practice. According to the statement, “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.”

The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Aina Adesola, strongly condemned the acts and assured the public that justice would be served.

“The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, condemns these acts in totality and reassures the public that the Command remains resolute in its determination to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. 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 in part reads

Police say investigations are still ongoing and more arrests may follow as efforts continue to bring everyone involved to justice.

The Delta State Police have made progress in the Ozoro case with more arrests, but investigations are still ongoing. Authorities are urging victims and witnesses to speak up as they work to ensure justice is served.