The Borno State Police Command is on the hunt for a man, Abdulsalam Adakwaki, accused of raping a five-year-old girl in the State Low-Cost area of Maiduguri, the state capital.
The command clarified on Wednesday that contrary to reports circulating online, the suspect has neither been arrested nor released.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, said the case emerged following a petition reporting that the incident occurred on November 13 at around 9 a.m., as the pupil was on her way to school.
The matter was immediately transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for investigation.
Daso stated, “Upon receipt of the report, the command immediately commenced an investigation through the State Criminal Investigation Department on the allegation. Contrary to claims circulating on social media that the suspect was apprehended and subsequently released by the police, the command wishes to set the record straight that no arrest has been made in respect of this case.
“The suspect is currently at large, while intensive efforts are ongoing to apprehend him. The command has engaged community leaders, including the Lawan, while the Civilian Joint Task Force has been requested to assist in locating and arresting the fleeing suspect.”
He added that the investigation is being conducted under proper supervision, with provisions for human rights groups and relevant civil society organisations to monitor the process.
The police also appealed to members of the public with credible information to assist in locating the suspect and ensuring his arrest.
“The command appeals to members of the public who may have credible information on the whereabouts of the suspect to promptly report to the nearest police station or assist in ensuring his arrest and handover to the police for further action.
“Further updates will be communicated as developments unfold,” Daso said.