Eight individuals suspected of  killing  police officers in the Ughelli area of Delta State have been apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

This development follows closely on the heels of the recent arrest of five individuals linked to the same incident.

Last Saturday, the police disclosed the identities of 12 officers, six of whom were confirmed deceased, while the fate of the remaining six remained uncertain following an ambush on February 23 during a rescue operation.

The officers, identified as Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT), Inspector Friday Irorere, Sergeant Kuden Elisha, Sergeant Akpan Aniette, Sergeant Ayere Paul, and Sergeant Ejemito Friday, were ambushed while on a mission to investigate the disappearance of three colleagues in Ohoro Forest.

According to ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the officers were attacked by armed assailants during their mission, resulting in the loss of lives and the capture of five suspects initially.With the recent arrests, the total number of suspects in police custody has risen to 13.

Adejobi stated in a statement on Saturday that the suspects are aiding ongoing investigations.

He emphasized the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring swift and decisive justice for all responsible for such reprehensible acts, promising that the suspects would face trial once investigations are concluded.

While condoling the families of the fallen officers, Adejobi condemned the violence and assured that those responsible would be brought to book.

He assured of the resolve of the police to bring all perpetrators of violence against officers to justice, underscoring the importance of upholding peace and security within communities.