Delta Police Launch Investigation into Ozoro 'R@ping Festival' Assaults, Vow to Bring Perpetrators to Justice
The Delta State Police Command has strongly condemned the disturbing sexual assaults reported during an annual festival in Ozoro community, promising swift action to apprehend those responsible. In a statement released on social media, Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe described the incident as "alarming, disgusting and embarrassing," confirming that State Commissioner of Police CP Aina Adesola has ordered an immediate investigation.
Police Condemn Barbaric Acts, Reject Cultural Justifications
SP Bright Edafe emphasized that no custom or tradition supersedes the fundamental rights of citizens, with the police command condemning the attacks "in totality." He urged residents to remain calm while assuring that perpetrators of what he termed "this barbaric act" would be identified, arrested, and prosecuted. The police have also appealed to witnesses with relevant information to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
Disturbing Videos Show Systematic Assaults During Annual Festival
Viral videos circulating online depict multiple women being sexually molested by groups of men during the Ozoro community festival held on Thursday, March 19. According to local reports, this annual March event traditionally bars women from appearing in public spaces, with any woman found outdoors allegedly subjected to assault by festival participants.
The graphic footage shows young men chasing women on roads, forcibly removing their clothing, and engaging in various forms of sexual molestation. Some reports suggest that several victims may have been raped during the chaotic attacks, though official confirmation awaits the police investigation.
Community Tradition Under Scrutiny as Authorities Respond
The Ozoro festival has drawn national attention and outrage following the circulation of assault videos. While community traditions vary across Nigeria, law enforcement officials have made clear that cultural practices cannot excuse criminal behavior, particularly violations of bodily autonomy and sexual violence.
Commissioner of Police CP Aina Adesola's directive for a thorough probe reflects growing institutional commitment to addressing gender-based violence in Delta State and nationwide. The case highlights ongoing tensions between cultural preservation and human rights protections in various Nigerian communities.
As investigations proceed, authorities face the dual challenge of ensuring justice for victims while sensitively engaging with community leaders about harmful traditional practices. The Delta Police Command's firm response signals that such incidents will not be tolerated under the guise of cultural celebration.
