The Abia State Police Command disclosed this in a statement released on Wednesday, noting that the suspect is the victim’s biological father, whose mother allegedly left the marriage.
The arrest was reportedly triggered by a viral video on social media showing the teenager bound with ropes, visibly injured, and left exposed to harsh weather conditions.
In response to the video, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, was said to have directed operatives of the Abayi Divisional Police Headquarters to locate and apprehend the suspect at his residence on Nwokocha Street, off Udeabara Road, Aba.
Confirming the arrest in the statement, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, disclosed that the teenager has been rescued and given medical treatment.
“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation, as the suspect is in Police custody.
“The victim has received medical attention, is in stable condition, and is currently under the protective custody of the Police,” Chinaka stated.
CP Afolabi was also said to have strongly condemned the act, describing it as inhumane, barbaric, and a gross violation of the rights of the child.
“He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for all forms of child abuse and domestic violence, and assured the public that the suspect will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report all cases of abuse and criminality to the nearest Police station or through the Command’s dedicated lines available to the public.
PUNCH reported a similar incident in June when the Anambra State Police Command arrested a couple over the brutal physical abuse of a 10-year-old boy in their care, sparking widespread public outrage and calls for stricter enforcement of child protection laws.
