The Nigeria Police Force said it arrested eight suspects in connection with the murder of its officers on a fact-finding mission in the Ughelli area of Delta.
The Force public relations officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.
He said the officers on a fact-finding mission were ambushed on February 23, while others on a rescue mission were also ambushed, resulting in the deaths of six police officers.
Mr Adejobi said the arrest followed the intensive investigative efforts of police operatives.
According to him, five suspects were initially arrested shortly after the incident, while an additional three were apprehended at different locations.
He said the arrest of the additional three followed the statements and cooperation of the initially arrested five suspects.
Mr Adejobi said the suspects were currently in police custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation.
He said the Nigeria Police Force was committed to ensuring that those responsible for the murder and other similar crimes were arrested and brought to justice swiftly and decisively.
The police spokesman said the suspects would soon have their day in court, with credible evidence, once investigations were concluded.
He said the police were deeply saddened by the heinous act of violence against their officers, who were diligently performing their duty to protect and serve the community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen officers during this difficult time. We wish to reiterate that the killers of our officers in this extant case and many others have murdered peace and none of them will go unpunished,” he said.
The officers, who were on duty in the Ughelli area of the state, were killed on February 23 and 26, with six others missing.
(NAN)