The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a man and launched a manhunt for other suspects over the alleged rape of a 15-year-old girl in Calabar.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.
According to him, the incident was reported at the Ikpa Omin Police Division on September 8, following an allegation that the girl was forcibly taken to a residence in the 8 Miles area on September 4.
The victim was allegedly sexually assaulted by two suspects and prevented from leaving the residence for about three days.
Following the report, police operatives arrested Felix Solomon, who is currently assisting investigators with information that could help the investigation.
The command said efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend other persons allegedly involved in the incident.
Eitokpah said appropriate investigative and child-protection measures had been activated to protect the survivor’s privacy, dignity and welfare.
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The Commissioner of Police, Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, directed that the case be investigated professionally and in accordance with the law.
He assured the public that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted and face the full consequences of the law if convicted.
Ordue also warned against sexual violence against children and urged parents, guardians and members of the public to promptly report suspected cases to the police or relevant child-protection authorities.
The command further cautioned against trial by media, stressing that all suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court.
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