Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a 36-year-old Cameroonian fisherman, Joseph Mbake, over the alleged defilement of a four-year-old girl in Mkpanak Village, Mbo Local Government Area of the state.
The suspect was arrested in the early hours of March 1, 2026, following days of investigation and surveillance within the community. The case was reported to the police on February 24, 2026, at about 2pm by the child’s mother, identified as Gift.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the mother raised the alarm after noticing a suspicious discharge from her daughter’s private part while bathing her. The development prompted her to immediately notify the police.
The police said that upon careful questioning, the child alleged that she had been sexually abused by an adult male and stated that she could identify the person if seen.
A medical examination form was issued without delay, and the child was taken for immediate medical attention as part of the investigative process.
Acting on the information provided, police operatives intensified surveillance within the neighbourhood. Their efforts led to the arrest of Mbake, who resides in Mkpanak Village, alongside others for further investigation.
An identification parade was subsequently conducted in accordance with established procedures, during which the victim reportedly identified the suspect.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the alleged incident occurred on February 14, 2026.
The Police Command strongly condemned all forms of sexual abuse, especially against minors, and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice and safeguarding vulnerable members of society.