Police Arraign 12 Over Rape, Defilement, Child Abuse in Anambra
By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State Police Command has shown their determination to protecting women and children following the arraignment of 12 suspects before the Gender Magistrate Court in Awka over alleged rape, defilement, child abuse, abduction and assault.
According to a statement issued on July 9 by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects were arraigned on July 8. He noted that the prosecutions reflect the command's unwavering resolve to uphold a zero-tolerance policy against sexual and gender-based violence in Anambra State.
The statement disclosed that Chima Onyeanuna, Emeka Muo and Okafor Chibundu were arraigned over the alleged abduction and defilement of a 14-year-old girl in Nanka. Chukwudi Ugwu Jeremiah was also charged with the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl at Slaughter Lane, Awka.
It further stated that Ndubuisi Ikechebelu, Udogu Kennedy, Nnamah Christopher and Chinecherem Emmanuel were separately charged with the alleged rape of a 19-year-old woman in incidents that reportedly resulted in pregnancy.
Also arraigned were Charity Anakwe and Chidiere Anakwe, who are facing charges over the alleged assault of their 12-year-old house help. Chukwudi Joseph was charged with allegedly assaulting a 12-year-old girl in Ozubulu, while Chibuike Agu is accused of allegedly defiling a 13-year-old girl in Fegge.
Following the arraignment, the Gender Magistrate Court ordered that all 12 suspects be remanded at the Awka Correctional Centre pending the hearing of their respective cases.
The Police Command assured residents that investigations into cases involving women and children would continue to receive priority attention and that all offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The statement added that the command remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable persons and will continue to ensure that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are brought to justice.