The Nigeria Police Force have arrested five suspects in connection with the killing of six police officers in Delta State.
The police officers were ambushed and killed by assailants while on a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest, Delta State.
The killed officers include; Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT) enlisted on August 1, 2003; Inspector Friday Irorere (51 PMF) enlisted on January 1, 2003; Sergeant Kuden Elisha (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011; Sergeant Akpan Aniette (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011; Sergeant Ayere Paul (IRT) enlisted on October 17, 2011; and Sergeant Ejemito Friday (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011.
Spokesperson for Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement yesterday, said six others are missing in action.
The officers are Inspector Onoja Daniel enlisted February 1, 2003; Inspector Onogho Felix enlisted on January 1, 2004; Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor enlisted April 1, 2004; Inspector Joel Hamidu enlisted June 1, 2006, Sergeant Moses Eduvie enlisted October 17, 2011, all of 51 PMF; and Sergeant Cyril Okorie (SWAT) enlisted October 17, 2011.
The police expressed sadness over the devastating loss of the six courageous officers, who had exhibited exceptional valour in the face of adversity.
According to the statement, the bodies of six slain officers were recovered after a fierce search conducted by a combined team of Police officers and other security outfits.
“These brave officers tragically fell victim to a cowardly ambush by armed assailants, and our hearts extend to the families, friends and colleagues of the fallen officers during this period of profound sorrow.
“We stand in solidarity with them, offering our deepest condolences and earnestly praying for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.
“Furthermore, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to honouring the memory of our fallen heroes by recognising their bravery, dedication and sacrifice.
“In accordance with this commitment, the Force will posthumously honour the slain officers for their noble service and ultimate sacrifice at the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony scheduled for April 5, in Abuja.
“For now, the Police are focussing on the search for the other six missing officers; while all their families have been duly contacted, even as the Inspector General of Police had mandated the expedited processing and payment of all entitlements due to the families of the fallen officers, aiming to alleviate any financial burdens they may encounter in this challenging time.
“This is to ensure that justice is served swiftly and the perpetrators of this abhorrent crime are brought to justice without unnecessary delay,” he said.
Adejobi also revealed that five suspects have been nabbed in connection with the killing, and they are currently volunteering information for the rounding up of all the perpetrators
To achieve this aim, he said the Police headquarters has mandated the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend others responsible for this senseless killing of the officers.
The Police, therefore assured that “no effort will be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice as the killers have murdered sleep and will be tracked down to account for their reprehensible acts.
