The Yobe State Police Command arrested two men, Bawa Sa’idu, 22, and Weti Saleh, 25, for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl in Jalingo Village, Tarmuwa Local Government Area. The horrifying incident happened on the afternoon of February 15, 2025, when the suspects lured the girl into a bush and assaulted her.
The attack left the victim with severe injuries, and her family rushed her to a hospital for urgent treatment. After receiving the report, officers from the Tarmuwa Divisional Police Headquarters launched an investigation. They tracked down the suspects and arrested them without resistance.
Investigators transferred both men to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Damaturu for further questioning. During interrogation, the suspects admitted to committing the crime. Meanwhile, doctors treated the victim and stabilized her condition, although the emotional and psychological impact of the incident is expected to be long-lasting.
The arrest outraged the local community. Residents demanded a swift trial, while local leaders condemned the attack. They called on law enforcement to take strong action against such crimes and strengthen child protection efforts.
“This crime is unacceptable, and we will ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, the safety of our children is a priority, and we will not tolerate such acts in our communities,” said Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Garba Ahmed, promising to deliver justice.
Sexual violence continues to rise in the region, and police have increased patrols in high-risk areas while raising awareness about child protection. Authorities are urging communities to stay alert and work together to prevent similar incidents.
In a separate case, officers in Damaturu arrested three suspects for stealing a motorcycle. They recovered the stolen bike and questioned the suspects.
As the investigation into the assault moves forward, Yobe Police Command remains committed to delivering justice and holding criminals accountable.