A 50-year-old oil palm dealer, Mr. Nsikak Akpan, has been arrested for allegedly defiling a 1-year and 7-month-old baby in his apartment in Betem Community, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to Rev. ThankGod Arong, Vice President of Betem Youth Council, the incident occurred on Tuesday at around 2 pm when the toddler was playing with Mr. Akpan’s 7-year-old son. The suspect allegedly took advantage of the child and defiled her, ejaculating on her body.
When confronted, Mr. Akpan attempted to bribe the community youths to cover up the incident, but they refused and handed him over to the police.
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The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, confirmed that the suspect is in custody and will be transferred to the Police Command Headquarters in Calabar soon.
The toddler is currently receiving treatment at a cottage hospital in Biase Local Government Area and is said to be seriously bleeding.
The case has sparked outrage in the community, with many calling for justice to be served.