The Taraba State Police Command has launched an investigation into an alleged razor blade attack on a 17-year-old girl in Donga Local Government Area of the state, following claims of prolonged harassment by a married man.
The incident was said to have occurred at the residence of the teenager identified as Iwasen Terhemba.
Residents of the community, who spoke to PUNCH Metro on the condition of anonymity, alleged that the girl, who lives with her guardian, Jemila Wanga, had repeatedly rebuffed advances from a married man, citing her age and his marital status.
It was gathered that tension heightened after the man’s wife allegedly became aware of the situation, with community members claiming that she began issuing threats against the minor.
According to the sources, Wanga reportedly approached the woman, identified as Abbas, to clarify that her husband was responsible for the alleged harassment and urged her to caution him.
However, the situation reportedly degenerated when Abbas allegedly stormed the girl’s residence and attacked her with a razor blade, inflicting injuries on her face.
The sources further alleged that the suspect warned the victim and her guardian against reporting the matter to the police, insisting it should be resolved within the community.
Speaking on the incident, Wanga said she had been threatened and discouraged from seeking justice.
She added that she was solely responsible for the medical bills of the injured teenager.
“I have just lost my husband and I am still mourning. They warned me not to report the matter to the police and threatened my life and those of my children,” she said.
She appealed to the Taraba State Government, particularly Governor Agbu Kefas, to assist with the victim’s medical care and ensure that justice is served.
The incident has reportedly generated outrage in the community, with residents calling for the protection of minors and accountability for those involved.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Taraba State Police Command, Victor Mshelizah, said the case had been reported and investigations were ongoing.
He said the victim had visited the police station and her statement had been taken, adding that the case file was being prepared for prosecution.
Mshelizah also dismissed attempts by some individuals to dissuade the family from pursuing the matter, stressing that such pressure would not affect the police investigation.
“We are aware that pressure is being mounted on the family to withdraw the case, but we will ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” he said.