The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man over the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the suspect, identified as Imeje Mathew, was arrested following a complaint lodged by the victim’s mother.
According to the police,Police Arrest 62-Year-Old Over Alleged Assault Of 12-Year-Old Girl incident was reported on March 3, after which the case was referred to the command’s Gender-Based Offences Unit for discreet investigation.
Jimoh explained that preliminary findings indicate the alleged incident occurred on February 28 at about 7:00 p.m. in the Ehin Ala area of Akure, where the girl resides with her siblings.
The suspect allegedly lured the minor to a nearby bush after she visited his shop to charge her mother’s phone.
“The mother reported that the suspect allegedly lured the minor under the pretense of assisting her before committing the offence,” Jimoh said.
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The police spokesperson confirmed that the victim is currently receiving medical attention at a hospital, while the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
Authorities say the case will be diligently pursued to ensure justice is served.
The police command reiterated its commitment to protecting women and children from sexual and gender-based violence and assured the public that perpetrators would face the full weight of the law.
Jimoh also commended members of the public for promptly reporting the case and encouraged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to law enforcement authorities.
“Together, we can build a safer society for our children and generations unborn,” he said.