The Nigeria Police Force had in March said it would be honouring officers.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has awarded posthumous honours to the six officers who were killed by an ambush in the line of duty in Ughelli, Delta State.
The Nigeria Police Force had in March said it would be honouring officers.
"The Nigeria Police Force is profoundly saddened by the devastating loss of six (6) courageous officers in Delta State, who exhibited exceptional valour in the face of adversity. These brave officers tragically fell victim to a cowardly ambush by armed assailants while undertaking a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest, Delta State, while six (6) others are currently missing-in-action.
"Our hearts extend to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers during this period of profound sorrow. We stand in solidarity with them, offering our deepest condolences and earnestly praying for the peaceful repose of the departed souls," a release by the Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, had said.
"The deceased officers include Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT) enlisted on 1st August, 2003; Inspector Friday Irorere (51 PMF) enlisted on 1st January, 2003; Sergeant Kuden Elisha (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; Sergeant Akpan Aniette (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; Sergeant Ayere Paul (IRT) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; and Sergeant Ejemito Friday (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011.
"In response to this grievous loss, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has taken decisive actions as expected. The bodies of six (6) of the slain officers have been recovered after a fierce search conducted by a combined team of police officers and other security outfits. The Force is focussed on the search for the other six (6) officers; while all their families have been duly contacted.
"Additionally, the Inspector General of Police has mandated the expedited processing and payment of all entitlements due to the families of the fallen officers, aiming to alleviate any financial burdens they may encounter in this challenging time," the police added.
However, Muyiwa Adejobi in statement on Tuesday the officers were honoured posthumously at the award and Commendation Ceremony in abuja on Monday, adding that their families received the payment of their entitlements at the event.
The statement reads in part; "Our 6 policemen that were killed in Ughelli, Delta State in February, 2024 were honoured posthumously at the award and Commendation Ceremony in abuja on Monday, and their families received the payment of their entitlements at the event."
"We commend the IGP for his good heart and spontaneous response to the plight of their families. We also appreciate the Governor of Kano State for his donation of N20million. Also the senate president donated the sum of N6million, and the Senate, the sum of N20million. We commend others who have shown interest in supporting the families of our fallen heroes. May God bless you all. May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in peace," the statement added.