By Duchess Ifeoluwa 

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man, Imeje Mathew, for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl in Akure, the state capital.

Nigerian Monitor reliably gathered that the incident was reported on March 3, 2026, by the victim’s mother, Adebayo Sefunmi, who alleged that the suspect lured her daughter into a nearby bush under the pretense of assisting her after she visited his shop to charge her phone.

According to preliminary investigations by the police, the suspect forcefully had unlawful carnal knowledge of the minor.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the state command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the victim is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital, while the suspect is in police custody.

He disclosed that the case has been referred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit for discreet investigation, and prosecution is expected to follow.

Meanwhile, Ondo State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to protecting women and children from sexual and gender-based violence, and ensuring perpetrators face the law.

The command appreciated the public’s timely reporting and urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to aid swift intervention.