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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, Wisdom Onyeaju, following allegations of defilement involving a 15-year-old girl.
The command also confirmed that police officers accused of professional misconduct in the handling of the matter have been identified and detained.
The arrest followed a viral video posted on January 3 by the victim’s sister, who alleged that the suspect forcefully entered the girl’s home during the Christmas period, threatened her with a knife and assaulted her. She further claimed that officers at a police station near the Government House in Owerri demanded ₦100,000 from the family before taking the victim’s statement, an allegation that triggered widespread public condemnation.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, said: “Onyeaju, a 24-year-old male of Umuekweye, Irete, Owerri-West Local Government Area, was arrested in connection with an alleged case of defilement.”
He added that “the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).”
According to the statement, “Upon conclusion of investigation, he will be arraigned in court with the appropriate charge(s).”
The police spokesperson also disclosed disciplinary action against officers accused of misconduct, stating: “The command has identified and detained the police officers alleged to have been involved in professional misconduct in the course of handling the case.”
He further noted that “an orderly room trial has been scheduled to commence on Monday, January 12, 2026, to address the misconduct in line with extant police regulations.”
The Imo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency and accountability, assuring the public that justice would be served in the case.