Five individuals have been arrested in Ozoro, Delta State, following allegations of molestation and sexual harassment of women during a local festival.
The spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, strongly condemned the incident after reviewing a viral video of the act.
“The Delta state police command has condemned the alleged sexual molestation and harassment and rape of girls in Ozoro under the guise of a festival.
“The Command received with grave concern disturbing videos that emanated from Oramudu quarters, Ozoro which captures sexual assault and molestation of young women in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area, during a purported local event.
“The Command unequivocally condemns such acts in their entirety. Acts of sexual violence are criminal, inhumane, and constitute a grave violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of victims. The Commissioner of Police upon receipt of the disturbing videos ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. The Chief organiser, five suspects have been arrested.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has ordered that the case be immediately transferred to State criminal department (SCID) for further investigation. Tactical and investigative assets have been duly deployed with a clear mandate to identify, apprehend, and ensure the prosecution of all individuals found culpable.
“The Command urges members of the public, particularly victims and witnesses, to come forward with any information that will aid ongoing investigations. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and the highest level of professionalism.
“The Commissioner of Police further appeals to residents of the State to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while assuring that the Command remains fully committed to protecting lives, safeguarding the rights of all citizens, and maintaining public order.
“The Delta State Police Command condemns this development in totality and assures that all those involved in these reprehensible acts will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
What you should know
Authorities in Delta State have taken swift action following public outrage over viral footage showing alleged abuse during a local festival in Ozoro.
The arrests signal a broader effort by law enforcement to address sexual violence and ensure accountability, especially when such acts are disguised as cultural or communal activities.
The transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department highlights its seriousness, while police continue to call for witnesses to support investigations and ensure justice for victims.
