The Delta State Police Command has confirmed that 11 suspects arrested in connection with the controversial festival in Oramudu Quarters, Ozoro, have been formally charged to court.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed that the suspects were arraigned on an eight-count charge following the incident, which sparked widespread outrage in March.
Recall that the incident triggered national condemnation after disturbing videos circulated online showing several women being attacked and molested by groups of young men during the local festival. Some of the videos reportedly showed men chasing women on the streets, tearing their clothes and subjecting them to harassment, amid allegations that some victims were sexually assaulted.
Reports at the time indicated that the community holds an annual festival in March during which women are expected to remain indoors. Women who venture outside during the event are reportedly subjected to harassment by participants.
Following the public outcry, the Delta State Police Command announced the arrest of several suspects. However, there had been limited information about the progress of the case until Edafe provided an update.
Speaking with LIB on Wednesday, October 28, Edafe confirmed that the 11 suspects had been arraigned in court on an eight-count charge. He, however, disclosed that the prosecution had encountered a significant setback because no victims or witnesses had come forward to assist with the case.
Edafe also explained that the suspects were granted bail after their arraignment. Those who fulfilled their bail conditions were released, while those who failed to meet the requirements remained in custody.
Commenting on recent allegations that young women were sexually assaulted during a similar festival in Ekpan, the police spokesperson said he had not received any report of such
