By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A 28-year-old school bus driver, Onome Ughagha, has been arrested by the Delta State Police Command for allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 14-year-old female student in Sapele, Delta State. The suspect reportedly demanded and collected ₦503,000 from the victim’s father before abandoning the girl along Oton Road. Police arrested him on Friday in his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, following an investigation into the incident.
Police Arrest Suspect in Sapele
The police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed the arrest in a statement on Sunday.
According to Edafe, the victim’s father reported the incident at the Sapele Area Command on Tuesday. He alleged that the suspect abducted his daughter while she prepared to leave for school.
The suspect subsequently contacted the father and demanded ₦503,000 as ransom. He also reportedly threatened to kill the girl if her father failed to pay.
After receiving the money, the suspect allegedly abandoned the victim along Oton Road, Sapele. She later reunited with her family in a traumatised condition, with indications of sexual assault.
Police Begin Investigation
Following the report, operatives of the Sapele Area Command launched an investigation into the alleged crime.
The police also took the victim to a medical facility for examination and treatment.
Meanwhile, officers invited the school principal and vice-principal for questioning as investigations continued. The police also intensified efforts to apprehend the suspect, who had reportedly abandoned the school bus and fled.
Acting on credible intelligence, officers eventually traced Ughagha to his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele. They arrested him on Friday.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to his involvement in the crime, according to the police statement.
Suspect Faces Further Investigation
The police spokesperson confirmed that arrangements were underway to transfer the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba.
The transfer will allow investigators to conduct further inquiries into the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault.
However, the allegations remain subject to the outcome of the investigation and any subsequent court proceedings.
Delta Police Commissioner Condemns Incident
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, condemned the incident and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting children from violence and exploitation.
Eralе assured the public that investigators would conduct a thorough investigation and hold anyone found culpable accountable.
The police commissioner also urged school authorities, parents and transport operators to exercise greater vigilance when safeguarding children.
He stressed that everyone responsible for children’s safety must treat their protection as a priority.
The command reiterated its commitment to investigating the case and pursuing justice for the victim.
