Four-year-old’s alleged abuse: Police detain Cameroonian fisherman

Etim Ekpimah

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old man over an alleged sexual abuse of a four-year-old child in Mkpanak Village, Ibeno Local Government Area.

The incident was reported on 24 February 2026 at about 2:00 pm, when a woman identified as Gift noticed a suspicious discharge from her daughter’s private part while bathing her. After careful questioning, the child alleged that she had been sexually abused by an adult male and stated that she would be able to identify him if seen.

The police promptly issued a medical examination form, and the child was taken for immediate medical attention.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives intensified surveillance within the neighbourhood. In the early hours of 1 March 2026, Joseph Mbake, 36, a Cameroonian national and fisherman residing in Mkpanak Village, was arrested alongside others for further investigation.

An identification parade was subsequently conducted in line with established procedures, during which the victim identified the suspect.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the alleged incident occurred on 14 February 2026.

The command strongly condemned all forms of sexual abuse, particularly against minors, and assured the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society.

DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station.