Ughelli Killings: Police make breakthrough, arrest 8 suspects

By Innocent Raphael

The Nigeria Police Force has achieved a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the tragic incidents that unfolded in Ughelli, Delta State in February 2023, resulting in the deaths of six policemen and leaving six others missing.

Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi made this known in a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday.

The statement noted that the killings of Police officers in the state earlier in January followed meticulous investigative efforts, leading to the apprehension of eight suspects connected with the brutal ambush attacks.

Initially, five suspects were arrested shortly after the incidents, with three more apprehended subsequently at different locations, based on information provided by the initial detainees.

According to the Police, suspects are currently in custody and are cooperating with ongoing investigations and are expected to face trial once investigations are concluded and credible evidences are gathered.

The Nigeria Police Force further reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators involved in such reprehensible acts are swiftly brought to justice.

In a statement, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, expressed deep sorrow over the violence inflicted upon the officers who were diligently performing their duties.

He also assured the public that those responsible for such heinous crimes will not escape justice.

“The Police Force continues to mourn the loss of its officers and extends condolences to the families of the fallen heroes. The resolve to uphold peace and security remains steadfast as efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice intensify,” the statement read.

Recall that in January, gunmen abducted three mobile police officers who were responding to distress calls at the Ohoro community in the Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

Following the abduction, some police officers were deployed to rescue their colleagues from captivity, but consequently all six met their deaths at the hand of the gunmen.