The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a middle-aged man, Tochukwu Nwora, for allegedly defiling and impregnating a 15-year-old girl in Achalla, Awka North Local Government Area of the state.
This was disclosed in a statement on Friday by the spokesman for the command, Tochukwu Ikenga.
Ikenga said the victim had allegedly been repeatedly defiled by several adult males at different times in Nando, Nteje and Achalla.
He said the raid was triggered by intelligence gathering on youths allegedly involved in the use of crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as ‘Mkpuru Mmiri’.
‘During the raid, the team rescued a 15-year-old girl, who is heavily pregnant, and arrested one Tochukwu Nwora over alleged defilement and child exploitation.
‘In the course of the operation, the operatives observed a middle-aged man in a compromising situation with the minor. The victim was immediately taken into protective custody.
‘Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim had allegedly been repeatedly defiled by several adult males at different times in Nando, Nteje and Achalla respectively.
‘The investigation further suggests that the suspects exploited her vulnerable condition by giving her a small amount of money.
‘Meanwhile, the victim was immediately taken to the Police Hospital, Awka, where medical examinations and other necessary procedures have commenced’, Ikenga said.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the matter be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive investigation, especially to determine whether the parent or guardian is culpable and facilitate the possible prosecution of all persons involved.
‘The Command condemns all forms of child abuse, exploitation and violence against minors and reassures the public of its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring justice for victims.
‘Further developments will be communicated as the suspect is assisting the police with information to apprehend other persons involved’, he added
