From Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Police in Ogun State has arrested Muniru Haruna for allegedly having carnal knowledge of a three-year-old girl (name withheld) at Oriile-Ilugun in Odeda Local Government Area.
Haruna, 25, was arrested following a distress call received by the police from the mother of the victim, Alaba Abdullahi, who reported that on March 1 at about 11am, she heard her daughter crying, only to discover that her voice was coming from the suspect’s room.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, who confirmed this to newsmen in a statement in Abeokuta on Sunday, said upon receiving the report, the police at Odeda station swung into action and arrested the suspect, as the minor was finding it difficult to walk.
She said due to signs of physical trauma exhibited by the girl, the mother immediately sought medical attention at the General Hospital, Odeda
“Odeda Division has reported a serious incident of defilement involving a minor. On March 1 at about 11am, the police out station at Orile-Ilugun received a distress call from 20-year-old Abdullahi regarding her three-year-old daughter.
“Alaba reported that Haruna, a 25-year-old man residing in the same area, allegedly committed the act while the victim was playing nearby. The incident was discovered when Alaba heard her child crying and quickly went to investigate, only to find her emerging from the suspect’s room in evident distress.
“Alaba immediately sought assistance, and both the victim and the suspect were transported to the General Hospital Odeda for medical examination and treatment. Medical forms were issued and the police awaits doctor’s results.
“The suspect has been taken into custody and has denied the allegation against him. The case was referred to Division Crime Branch for investigation and will be transferred to the State CID, Eleweran upon completion of preliminary inquiry.
“We take these allegation seriously and are committed to ensuring justice for the victim. The safety and well-being of our community, especially children, remain top priority for the Ogun State Police Command.
“We urge anyone with additional information regarding this incident to come forward and assist law enforcement. Further updates will be provided as investigation progresses”, Odutola said.
