By Ismail Azeez
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested Imeje Mathew, a 62-year-old man, for the alleged lure and sexual violation of a 12-year-old girl in Akure.
According to a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the incident took place during the evening hours of February 28, 2026, in the Ehin Ala area.
The suspect reportedly capitalized on the victim’s presence at his shop, where she had gone to charge her mother’s mobile phone, by tricking her into a nearby bush under the guise of offering assistance.
The matter was officially brought to the attention of the authorities on March 3, 2026, by the victim’s mother, Adebayo Sefunmi, prompting an immediate investigation by the Gender-Based Offences Unit.
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal reacting, reaffirmed the command’s zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual and gender-based violence, asserting that the suspect will face the full weight of the law.
Lawal further emphasized the importance of community vigilance and timely reporting to ensure the safety and protection of children within the state.