Delta Police Dismiss 'Rape Festival' Claims, Confirm 16 Arrests in Ozoro Incident
The Delta State Police Command has firmly rejected claims that the controversial Alue-Do festival held in Ozoro was a "rape festival," clarifying that no victim has officially reported rape in connection with the event. Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe made this statement during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, March 23, emphasizing that investigations are ongoing based on evidence and witness accounts.
No Official Reports of Rape, Says Police Spokesman
Bright Edafe stressed that among the four girls interviewed, none alleged they were raped, and no official reports have been filed to support such claims. "It is important to state clearly that among the four girls that were interviewed yesterday, no one, not one of them, said they were raped. Up till this very moment, we have not had any official reports that anybody was raped," he said. He added that the law operates on evidence, not emotions, and investigations will focus on sexual assault based on available proof.
Festival Intended as Traditional Rite for Barren Women
Edafe explained that the festival was not designed to promote sexual violence but was a traditional ceremony organized by a chief priest. "It was not a rape festival. It was a festival organised by a chief priest to pray for barren women seeking the fruit of the womb. That was the intention," he stated. However, he acknowledged that the event has sparked concerns and led to police intervention.
16 Suspects Arrested and Transferred for Investigation
In response to the incident, the police have arrested 16 suspects so far. Initially, the chief priest and four others were detained, and after video analysis of the event footage, 11 more individuals were identified and apprehended. "This brings the total number of suspects currently in custody to 16, and they have been transferred to the State Command Headquarters to be duly investigated by the DC State CID," Edafe revealed. The arrests underscore the police's commitment to addressing any misconduct linked to the festival.
The Delta State Police Command continues to investigate the matter, urging the public to rely on official updates and avoid spreading unverified information. The case highlights the balance between respecting cultural traditions and ensuring public safety and legal compliance.
