The Delta State Police Command has arrested five suspects, including a community leader, in connection with alleged sexual assaults during a local festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued on Friday, March 20, 2026, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe.
According to the statement, the suspects include the chief organiser of the event, Chief Omorede Sunday, and four others allegedly linked to the disturbing incidents captured in viral videos from Oramudu Quarters in Isoko North Local Government Area.
The police described the acts shown in the footage as “criminal, inhumane, and a grave violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of victims,” noting that the videos were received with serious concern.
Following the emergence of the footage, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Aina Adesola, ordered an immediate investigation, which led to the swift arrest of the suspects.
Authorities disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. Tactical teams have also been deployed with a clear mandate to identify and apprehend all other individuals involved in the alleged crimes.
The police command urged victims and witnesses to come forward with useful information, assuring that all reports would be treated with strict confidentiality and professionalism.
Commissioner Adesola appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and upholding the rights of citizens.
The Command condemned the incidents “in totality,” stressing that all those found culpable would be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The arrests follow widespread outrage over reports that women and girls were allegedly assaulted during a traditional festival in Ozoro, the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area.
The incident, which gained national attention after videos circulated on social media, sparked condemnation from Nigerians, with many calling for justice and an end to harmful practices that endanger women.
Residents alleged that during the festival, women were warned to remain indoors to avoid being attacked, with those seen outside reportedly at risk of harassment or assault.
Concerns have also been raised about the safety of female students of Delta State University, Ozoro, and visitors unfamiliar with the alleged risks associated with the festival.