Six policemen killed in Delta, 6 others missing

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the killing of six policemen and the missing of six others in Delta State.

A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi on Saturday, said the Nigeria Police Force is profoundly saddened by the devastating loss of six courageous officers in Delta State, who exhibited exceptional valour in the face of adversity.

The statement said the brave officers tragically fell victim to a cowardly ambush by armed assailants while undertaking a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest, Delta State, while six (6) others were currently missing in action.

“Our hearts extend to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers during this period of profound sorrow. We stand in solidarity with them, offering our deepest condolences and earnestly praying for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.

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“The deceased officers include Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT) enlisted on 1st August 2003; Inspector Friday Irorere (51 PMF) enlisted on 1st January 2003; Sergeant Kuden Elisha (51 PMF) enlisted on

17th October 2011; Sergeant Akpan Aniette (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October 2011; Sergeant Ayere Paul (IRT) enlisted on 17th October 2011; and Sergeant Ejemito Friday (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October 2011.

“The officers currently missing in action include Inspector Onoja Daniel enlisted on 1st February 2003; Inspector Onogho Felix enlisted on 1st January 2004; Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor enlisted

on 1st April 2004; Inspector Joel Hamidu enlisted on 1st June 2006, Sergeant Moses Eduvie enlisted on 17th October, 2011, all of 51 PMF; and Sergeant Cyril Okorie (SWAT) enlisted 17th October 2011,” the statement said.

It said the Nigeria Police Force is committed to honouring the memory of its fallen heroes by recognizing their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.

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“In accordance with this commitment, the Force will posthumously honour the slain officers for their noble service and ultimate sacrifice at the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony scheduled for April 5th, 2024 in Abuja.

“In response to this grievous loss, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has taken decisive actions as expected. The bodies of six (6) of the slain officers have been recovered after a fierce search conducted by a combined team of police officers and other security outfits.

The Force is focused on the search for the other six (6) officers; while all their families have been duly contacted,” it added.

The statement said the Inspector General of Police has mandated the expedited processing and payment of all entitlements due to the families of the fallen officers, aiming to alleviate any financial burdens they may encounter in this challenging time.

“Similarly, immediate measures have been initiated to ensure that justice is served swiftly and the perpetrators of this abhorrent crime are brought to justice.

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“The Inspector General of Police has mandated the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for this senseless killing of our officers, and this has led to the arrest of five (5) suspects in connection with the preceding incident and the killing, who are currently volunteering information necessary for the rounding up of all the perpetrators.

“It is paramount to underscore that contrary to perceived notions in some quarters, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to responding decisively to the loss of its officers and men as a result of the many unforeseen hazards associated with our job due to the dynamics of crimes and criminality globally,” it noted.