Following outrage over the harassment and molestation of women during a festival in Oramudu Quarters, Ozoro community, Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State Police Command, yesterday, arrested 11 more persons.
The arrest brings the number of those so far in police custody over the issue to 15.
A statement by the command’s spokesman, Bright Edafe, said preliminary findings indicated that the alleged harassment and molestation of women during the festival were carried out by suspected criminal elements who took advantage of the festivity to perpetrate their actions.
Social media posts alleging that a local cultural celebration, Alue-Do Festival, had devolved into what some described as a “rape festival” sparked widespread concerns.
The claims quickly gained traction online, with disturbing narratives suggesting that women were being targeted and assaulted under the guise of tradition.
As the story spread, it triggered intense reactions from the public, advocacy groups, and commentators who called for urgent investigation and accountability.
Speaking on those apprehended over the incident, the police urged witnesses to come forward with information that would lead to further arrests.
“Further to the earlier disturbing reports on the alleged incidents of sexual assault in Oramudu Quarters in Ozoro, the command wishes to update the public based on recent developments in the ongoing investigation.
Delta Festival Outrage: Isoko Nation, Iyovwaye, ActionAid demand justice over sexual assault against young women in Ozoro
“In line with the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), was tasked with conducting a detailed investigation into the incident.
“Acting on this directive, operatives of CP-SAT conducted a thorough analysis of available video evidence and intelligence. This led to the arrest of 11 additional suspects. The latest arrests bring the total number of suspects currently in police custody in connection with the incident to 15.
“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, 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.
