…Police Launch Probe Into Sexual Assault
Delta State Government, on Friday, condemned reports of women being harassed and sexually assaulted during the Ozoro Festival, describing the acts as barbaric and unacceptable.
State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, in a statement, urged security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
“We are calling on the police and other security agencies to fish out the perpetrators of these heinous acts and bring them to justice. No individual or group should be allowed to hide under the guise of a festival to perpetrate criminal activities,” he said.
The commissioner assured residents that the state government remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all citizens, particularly women and other vulnerable groups.
Aniagwu also urged community leaders and organisers of cultural festivals across the state to put in place adequate security measures to safeguard participants and prevent a recurrence.
The government reiterated its zero tolerance for gender-based violence, warning that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
Recall that earlier reports highlighted the circulation of videos and claims allegedly showing women being assaulted during a traditional festival in Ozoro.
Although details surrounding the festival remain unclear, the allegations have sparked widespread condemnation, with many accusing society of tolerating violence against women under the guise of culture.
However, The Delta State Police Command says it has launched a full-scale investigation into the disturbing Ozoro sexual assault incident following the circulation of viral videos showing alleged abuse of young women in Oramudu quarters, Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP. Bright Edafe, said the Command received the footage with “grave concern,” describing the acts as criminal, inhumane, and a gross violation of victims’ fundamental rights.
Community leader, five others arrested
The Commissioner of Police, CP. Aina Adesola, has ordered an immediate investigation into the Ozoro sexual assault, leading to the arrest of the alleged chief organiser, Chief Omorede Sunday, alongside four other suspects.
Police authorities confirmed that additional arrests have been made, including a community head from Oramudu quarters, as part of efforts to bring all perpetrators of the Ozoro sexual assault to justice.
The Command further disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, for comprehensive handling.
Police deploy tactical teams, seek public support
According to the statement, tactical and investigative teams have been deployed with a clear mandate to identify and apprehend all individuals connected to the Ozoro sexual assault.
The police urged victims and witnesses to come forward with credible information, assuring that all disclosures would be handled with strict confidentiality and professionalism.
“The Command remains fully committed to protecting lives and safeguarding the rights of all citizens,” the statement added.
Call for calm as justice process begins
While condemning the incident in its entirety, the Command called on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding as investigations continue.
The authorities assured that all those involved in the Ozoro sexual assault would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, reinforcing its commitment to justice and public safety.
