VANGUARD
The Nigeria Police Force, on Saturday, confirmed that six of its officers were killed in an ambush by kidnappers/criminals in Ohoro forest in Delta state, while six others were missing in action.
“The bodies of six 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 focussed on the search for the other six officers; while all their families have been duly contacted,” the Police authorities said.
Their names
A statement by the Force Publuc Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, gave the names of the deceased officers as 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 1st February, 2003; Inspector Onogho Felix, enlisted on 1st January, 2004; Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor, 1st April, 2004; Inspector Joel Hamidu, 1st June 2006; Sergeant Moses Eduvie, 17th October, 2011, all of 51 PMF.
The sixrh is Sergeant Cyril Okorie (SWAT) enlisted 17th October, 2011.
The FPRO said that folliwing the sad development, the Inspector General of Police “mandated the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for this senseless killing of our officers”.
Arrest
“This has led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with the preceding incident and the killing. They are currently volunteering information necessary for the rounding up of all the perpetrators.”
The statement read in part: “The Nigerian 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. They were 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.
“Furthermore, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to honouring the memory of our fallen heroes by recognizing their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.
Honour
“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.
“Additionally, 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.
