Community leader, 4 others arrested over ‘rape festival’ in Delta

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

Police said they have arrested one Chief Omorede Sunday, the head of Oramudu quarters, in Ozoro town, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State and four other people over alleged ‘rape festival’ in the community.

This was announced by the spokesperson of Delta Police Command, Bright Edafe on Friday.

Edafe described the arrested community leader as the chief organiser of the festival in which girls found outside were being grabbed and raped by a gang of young men.

“The CP has ordered that they should be transferred to State CID with immediate effect. The CP vows that anyone involved will be arrested and brought to justice,” Edafe said

Edafe had earlier expressed grave concern over the disturbing videos from Oramudu quarters, Ozoro which captured sexual assault and molestation of young women.

“The Command unequivocally condemns such acts in their entirety. Acts of sexual violence are criminal, inhumane, and constitute a grave violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of victims.

“Delta State Police Command. The Commissioner of Police upon receipt of the disturbing videos ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. The Chief organiser, one chief Omorede Sunday and

“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has ordered that the case be immediately transferred to State criminal department (SCID) for further investigation,” said Edafe.

The Police spokesperson added that tactical and investigative assets have been duly deployed with a clear mandate to identify, apprehend, and ensure the prosecution of all individuals found culpable in the alleged rape festival.

The Delta police spokesperson also called on members of the public, particularly victims and witnesses, to come forward with any information that will aid investigations of alleged mass rape.

He added that all information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and the highest level of professionalism.

“The Commissioner of Police further appeals to residents of the State to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while assuring that the Command remains fully committed to protecting lives, safeguarding the rights of all citizens, and maintaining public order.

“The Delta State Police Command condemns this development in totality and assures that all those involved in these reprehensible acts will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Multiple reports had indicated that girls were warned against coming out during the festival in Ozoro community. However, girls who defied the order were chased on the streets, grabbed and allegedly subjected to groping and gang rape by the young men as seen in viral videos on social media