The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has stated that it has arrested a 10-year-old boy identified as Bright James following an allegation that he defiled a three-year-old girl.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, stated this in a statement on Saturday in Uyo, the state capital, following reports that James was illegally detained.

She disclosed that the suspect voluntarily admitted to the offence without coercion, adding that the suspect would be charged to court on Monday, February 10, 2025.

She said, ?The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to a viral report alleging the illegal detention of a 10-year-old boy, Bright Okon James.

?To set the records straight, the command wishes to clarify that the said minor was taken into custody following allegations of defilement of a three-year-old girl (name withheld).

?The case is currently under investigation, and findings, including a medical report, have provided evidence of the incident.

Additionally, the suspect voluntarily admitted to the offence without coercion.

?He will be charged to court accordingly on the 10th of February, 2025. Furthermore, the command categorically states that there was no trial by ordeal in this matter.

?Such practices are criminal under Nigerian law, and the police strongly condemn any form of extrajudicial actions?

The PPRO added that the command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, remains steadfast in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served in line with due process.

?We urge members of the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and allow the investigation to take its legal course,? she appealed. (Saturday PUNCH)

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