A 40-year-old man has been taken into police custody following allegations that he abused his 12-year-old step-daughter in Obunagha community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The incident, which reportedly occurred within the community, sparked outrage among residents after the allegation became known.
The minor was said to have been rushed to the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, where she received medical attention.
Angered by the development, youths in the community apprehended the suspect, identified as a bricklayer, before handing him over to operatives of the State Rapid Response Unit in Dor Akpor.
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A family source described the incident as distressing and confirmed that the child’s family is considering pursuing legal action to ensure justice is served.
Confirming the arrest, the Bayelsa State Police Command spokesperson, Musa Mohammed, said the suspect is currently in custody, noting that investigations are ongoing.
“Yes, the suspect is with the State Rapid Response Unit in Dor Akpor. Further details will be made available once the case is fully transferred to the command for investigation,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Founder of the Do Foundation, Dr Dise Harry, expressed concern over what she described as an increase in cases of child abuse in the state.
She disclosed that similar incidents had been recorded between December 2025 and January 2026, calling for stronger preventive measures and intensified public sensitisation.
She urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure that perpetrators are prosecuted in line with the law, stressing that protecting children must remain a collective priority.
The police have assured the public that the case will be properly investigated as part of efforts to curb gender-based violence in the state.