The Delta State Police Command yesterday confirmed the arrest of a man accused of sexually abusing his nine-year-old daughter at a hotel in Issele-Uku, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Police sources said the suspect is currently in custody while the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) investigates the allegation, which officials described as a serious case of child abuse.

The Guardian learnt that the child has since been handed over to the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee under the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development for protection and care, in line with child welfare procedures.

The police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect had denied the allegation during interrogation. He added that medical examinations were conducted on the child as part of the investigation, while further inquiries were ongoing.

According to information gathered, the suspect allegedly checked into a hotel in Issele-Uku with the child. He reportedly informed hotel staff that he was attending a family event elsewhere and requested that the child be looked after temporarily. The following day, he returned with police officers, alleging that the child had been abused in his absence.

Based on the initial complaint, hotel staff and some lodgers were arrested and questioned by officers of the Issele-Uku Police Division. The hotel manager was later released on bail after it was established that he was not present at the hotel at the time of the alleged incident. Sources said the case was subsequently transferred to the SCID in Asaba following the insistence of the complainant.

However, investigators said the matter took a different turn after the child was separated from the suspect and interviewed in a safe environment. During the process, the child reportedly gave an account that shifted the focus of the investigation.

Following these developments, the police said the child was formally handed over to the Child Rights Implementation Committee and referred to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre at the Asaba Specialist Hospital for further assessment and support.

Officials said the case would be handled in accordance with the Delta State Child Rights Law of 2008, as amended. The police assured the public that investigations were continuing and that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted.

The command also urged residents to report cases of child abuse promptly, stressing that the protection of children remains a priority for law enforcement agencies in the state. (The Guardian)