The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 70-year-old man, Usman Abubakar, over the alleged defilement of an eight-year-old girl in the Tsakanin Bayara area of Bauchi metropolis.
The case was reported at the ‘E’ Division, Yelwa, on Wednesday by the victim’s 48-year-old father.
According to the father, Abubakar, who resides in the same area, allegedly lured his daughter to an uncompleted building on Sunday, August 24, where he allegedly had unlawful sexual intercourse with her.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, said the arrest was made as part of ongoing efforts by the police to tackle sexual and gender-based violence in the state.
Following the report, operatives of the division immediately launched an investigation and arrested the suspect.
The police said that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to the offence.
The victim was subsequently taken to the Police Clinic for medical examination and appropriate care.
The Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the alleged incident and assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
He said the suspect would be charged to court in accordance with the law after the investigation.
The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Bauchi, for discreet investigation and prosecution.
The Command reiterated its zero tolerance for sexual violence and child abuse, urging parents, guardians and members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police station.
