35-Year-Old Man Arrested Over Alleged Rape of 11-Year-Old Girl in Cross River
Police in Cross River State have arrested a 35-year-old man over the alleged rape of an 11-year-old girl in Yala Local Government Area.
The suspect was arrested following a report by the victim’s father at the Okpoma Divisional Police Headquarters on Oct. 24, alleging that the incident occurred on Oct. 18.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Eitokpah, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to the statement, the father alleged that the suspect lured the child, sexually assaulted her and subsequently abandoned her at a location within the community.
The police said the victim had been referred to a general hospital for medical examination, while the suspect was arrested and detained pending the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Ajo Ordue, directed that the investigation be concluded promptly and the case file transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Ordue reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons, urging members of the public to report suspected cases of rape and other forms of abuse without delay.
He assured the public that the allegation would be investigated professionally and in accordance with the law, with due consideration for the victim’s welfare and confidentiality.
The command also warned against circulating information, photographs or other details that could reveal the child’s identity or expose her to further harm.
It further emphasised that the suspect remained presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The police urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in efforts to protect children and ensure that allegations of sexual violence receive appropriate attention.
