The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspects over alleged involvement in sexual offences and child abuse, vowing to ensure their prosecution.
The command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, noting that investigations had been concluded and the suspects would be arraigned in court.
Among those arrested is a 46-year-old man, Rapuruchukwu Ezenandu, accused of engaging in an unlawful sexual relationship with his daughter.
According to the police, the case was transferred from Oko Police Station on April 23, 2026, after the 20-year-old victim was confirmed to be HIV positive during a hospital visit.
Preliminary findings indicate that the alleged abuse began when the victim was a minor.
The suspect is said to have made a confessional statement.
In a separate case, a female suspect, Eucharia Ezenwanne, was accused of physically assaulting two children, aged six and four, using a wire and causing injuries.
She reportedly claimed to have adopted the children from a motherless babies’ home in Onitsha.
The police also disclosed that a 26-year-old security guard, Chukwuemeka Chidiebere, was arrested over the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl in Ogbunike.
He was accused of attacking the victim and taking her to an uncompleted building, where the offence was committed. The suspect has reportedly confessed.
Similarly, a 36-year-old barber, Uchenna Muojama, was apprehended over the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl after luring her into his shop. Police said a medical report had been obtained to aid prosecution.
In another case, a 52-year-old man, Chukwudi Nwayata, was accused of exploiting the condition of an 11-year-old girl and assaulting her.
Ikenga stated that all suspects were investigated by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department and would be arraigned before a special court in Awka.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, described the offences as heinous, reiterating the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons, particularly children, and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.