Delta Police Arrest Community Leader, Four Others Over Alleged Sexual Assaults During Ozoro Festival

Authorities in Delta State have arrested the organiser of a local festival in Ozoro alongside four others following allegations of sexual assault linked to the event.

In a statement issued on Friday by the police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, the command confirmed that the suspects were taken into custody after videos circulated online showing women being assaulted in Oramudu quarters, within Isoko North.

The police said the footage prompted immediate action from the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, who ordered a full investigation into the incident. The organiser, identified as Omorede Sunday, was among those arrested.

According to the statement, the case has been moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry. Additional tactical and investigative units have been deployed to identify and apprehend all individuals connected to the reported assaults.

The command described the incidents as criminal and a violation of the rights and dignity of the victims. It also called on members of the public, including witnesses and victims, to provide information that could assist the investigation, assuring confidentiality.

Residents were urged to remain calm while security agencies continue their work. The police reaffirmed that those found responsible will be prosecuted under the law.

The arrests follow widespread concern after reports emerged that women were allegedly attacked during a festival in Ozoro. Accounts from residents and earlier reports indicated that the event had raised safety concerns, particularly for women and students in the area, with claims that movement outside at certain hours during the celebration exposed individuals to risk.