The Nigeria Police Force confirmed that six officers were killed during an investigation into the disappearance of three colleagues in Delta State.
The Force's Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed this in a statement on Saturday.
Adejobi also mentioned that six other officers are still missing and that five suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings.
The statement read, "The Nigeria Police Force is deeply saddened by the loss of six brave officers in Delta State who showed exceptional courage in the face of adversity.
"These courageous officers tragically fell victim to an ambush by armed attackers while on a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest, Delta State, while six others are currently missing-in-action.
"Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers during this time of deep sorrow. We stand with them, offering our deepest condolences and praying for the peaceful rest of the departed souls.
The FPRO named the deceased officers as Inspector Abe Olubunmi, Inspector Friday Irorere, Sergeant Kuden Elisha, Sergeant Akpan Aniette, Sergeant Ayere Paul, and Sergeant Ejemito Friday.
He also identified the missing officers as Inspector Onoja Daniel, Inspector Onogho Felix, Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor, Inspector Joel Hamidu, Sergeant Moses Eduvie, and Sergeant Cyril Okorie.
The statement also mentioned that the NPF will recognize the officers for their service and sacrifice at an upcoming awards ceremony.
It also expressed commitment to supporting the families of the deceased officers.
The statement added, "Furthermore, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to honoring the memory of our fallen heroes by acknowledging their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.
"In line with this commitment, the Force will posthumously honor the slain officers for their noble service and ultimate sacrifice at the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony scheduled for April 5th, 2024, in Abuja.
"In response to this tragic loss, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has taken decisive actions as expected.
"The bodies of six of the slain officers have been found after an intense search by a combined team of police officers and other security groups.
"The Force is concentrating on the search for the other six officers, and all their families have been contacted.
"Additionally, the Inspector General of Police has ordered the prompt processing and payment of all benefits due to the families of the fallen officers, aiming to ease any financial burdens they may face at this difficult time.
"Likewise, immediate measures have been taken to ensure swift justice and the perpetrators of this appalling crime are brought to justice.
"The Inspector General of Police has ordered the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for this senseless killing of our officers, leading to the arrest of five suspects in connection with the incident and the killing, who are currently providing information needed to capture all the perpetrators.
The NPF said it is against attacks on law enforcement and asked the public to provide any information that could help catch the remaining attackers.
Similarly, PUNCH reports reported that 17 Nigerian Army soldiers died in Delta State last Thursday.
The soldiers from the 181 Amphibious Battalion were on a peace-keeping mission to stop clashes between communities in Bomadi Local Government of Delta State when the incident happened.
