Driver arrested for kidnapping and assaulting Delta student

A 28-year-old school bus driver, Onome Ughagha, has been arrested by the Delta State Police for allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in Sapele.

PUNCH Metro learned that the suspect was caught after reportedly demanding and collecting N503,000 as ransom from the girl's father.

The police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, shared this information in a statement on Sunday.

The PPRO said the father reported the incident to the Sapele Area Command on Tuesday. He claimed the suspect took his daughter while she was getting ready for school.

"The suspect later contacted him and demanded N503,000, threatening to kill the girl if the money was not paid," the police statement said.

The statement explained that after the ransom was paid, the victim was abandoned on Oton Road in Sapele. She was found in a traumatized state, showing signs of sexual assault, and was reunited with her family.

After receiving the report, the operatives from the Sapele Area Command quickly started investigations. They took the victim to a hospital for treatment and examination.

The school principal and vice-principal were called in for questioning. The police also stepped up efforts to find the suspect, who had left the school bus and ran away.

However, with good information, the operatives traced the suspect to his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele. He was arrested on Friday.

During initial questioning, he reportedly admitted to his involvement in the crime.

The police spokesperson confirmed that plans were being made to move the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for more investigation.

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, has condemned the act. He emphasized the command's commitment to protecting children from violence and exploitation.

The CP promised that "investigations will be thorough, and anyone found guilty will face justice."

The police chief also urged school authorities, parents, and transport operators to "be more watchful in protecting children," stressing that the safety of every child in their care must always come first.