The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of eleven additional suspects in connection with Thursday’s alleged sexual assault in Ozoro community.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Asaba, following a crackdown on those allegedly involved in the incident.

“In furtherance of earlier disturbing reports on alleged sexual assaults in Oramudu Quarters, Ozoro, the command provides an update on ongoing investigations,” he said.

SP Edafe explained that the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aina Adeshina, directed the CP Special Assignment Team to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident.

“Acting on this directive, operatives analysed video evidence and intelligence, leading to the arrest of eleven additional suspects,” he added.

He identified some of the suspects as Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, Evidence Oguname, and six others.

The latest arrests bring the total number of suspects in custody to 15.

According to him, preliminary findings suggest that criminal elements exploited the situation to perpetrate acts of sexual violence.

SP Edafe stressed that the acts are not representative of any legitimate cultural practice in the Ozoro community.

“The Commissioner condemns these acts in their entirety and reassures the public of the command’s commitment to securing justice for the victims.

“He is determined that all those involved will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“Members of the public, especially victims and witnesses, are urged to provide credible information to support ongoing investigations,” he said.