The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested five suspects in connection with separate cases of alleged sexual assault against minors across the state.
The Command said the arrests followed reports by parents and community members in Yana, Tudun Gambo, Misau, Gadau and Gumau.
In Yana, one Shawilu Liman, 44, was arrested following a report of alleged defilement of a minor. In Tudun Gambo, Alkaleri Local Government Area, Zakariya Auwal, 18, was arrested over a similar allegation.
In Misau, Idris Sani, 19, was arrested following a report of alleged defilement of a minor. In Gadau, Mansur Sha’aibu, 40, was arrested over an allegation of unnatural offence against a minor. In Gumau, Toro Local Government Area, Michael Soja, 25, was arrested over an allegation of rape of a teenager.
The Police said all the victims received medical attention, and that the Command is working with relevant stakeholders to ensure they get psychosocial support and protection.
All five suspects are in Police custody. Investigations are ongoing, and they will be charged to court upon completion.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the alleged acts in the strongest terms, describing them as wicked, inhuman and a betrayal of the trust children place in adults around them.
He appealed to parents, guardians, teachers, religious and community leaders to watch over children, listen to them when they speak, believe them when they report abuse, and report any suspicious person or behaviour immediately to the nearest Police station.
He assured residents that the Command maintains zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, especially against children, and will continue to work with communities to make every home, school and village safe for children.