Police Release Identities of 12 Slain, Missing Officers in Delta Attack, Vow to Deal with Killers 

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The police high command yesterday released the pictures of six slain policemen and six others declared missing-in-action during an ambush in Delta State some weeks ago.

The policemen were killed in an ambush by assailants while undertaking a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest in Delta State, while six others are presently missing-in-action. 

A statement issued by Force Headquarters confirmed the arrest of five suspects in connection with the preceding incident and the killing.

It said the suspects have volunteered information necessary for the rounding up of all the perpetrators.

The statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the bodies of six of the slain officers were recovered after a “fierce” search conducted by a combined team of police officers and other security outfits. 

It said the police were focused on the search for the other six officers while all their families were duly contacted.

It listed the deceased officers to include: “Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT) enlisted on August 1, 2003; Inspector Friday Irorere (51 PMF) enlisted on January 1, 2003; Sergeant Kuden Elisha (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011; Sergeant Akpan Aniette (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011; Sergeant Ayere Paul (IRT) enlisted on October 17, 2011 and Sergeant Ejemito Friday (51 PMF) enlisted on October 17, 2011. 

“While the officers currently missing-in-action include: Inspector Onoja Daniel enlisted February 1, 2003; Inspector Onogho Felix enlisted on January 1, 2004; Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor enlisted on April 1, 2004; Inspector Joel Hamidu enlisted June 1, 2006; Sergeant Moses Eduvie enlisted on October 17, 2011, all of 51 PMF; and Sergeant Cyril Okorie (SWAT) enlisted on October 17, 2011.

“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. 

“These 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 others are 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,” it said.

The statement said: “Immediate measures have been initiated to ensure that justice is served swiftly and the perpetrators of this abhorrent crime are brought to justice. 

“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 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.

“Recent incidents, such as the murder of SP Angbashim in Rivers State, where the perpetrators have been painstakingly traced to their hideout and decimated during the exchange of gunfire with gallant operatives of the Force is a vital pointer.

“Notable also is the swift and robust response to the attack on the Police Command Headquarters in Adamawa State where one Inspector Jacob Daniel was gruesomely murdered, which was followed by a visit to Adamawa State by the IG, and timeous response by Mr. President upon being briefed. 

“Equally, efforts were intensified in that regard to seek redress and ensure sanctions for the attackers,” it said.

The police, therefore, warned against any further assault on personnel.

“The Nigeria Police Force unequivocally condemns any further assault on police officers and other law enforcement personnel, who selflessly dedicate themselves to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens, reiterating the NPF’s dedication to upholding law and order, and urging our officers to remain resolute in the discharge of their lawful duties, undeterred by such cowardly acts.

“Similarly, individuals and groups peddling unnecessary and insensitive publications being circulated in the media space are urged not to make light of this loss to the NPF but to sympathise with the police in these sorrowful times,” it said.