Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 28-year-old school bus driver, Onome Lucky Ughagha, in connection with the alleged abduction and sexual assault of a 14-year-old female student in Sapele. Ughagha is also accused of extorting a ransom of N503,000 from the victim’s father.
The distressing incident came to light on October 20, when the victim’s father filed a report at the Sapele Area Command. He stated that his daughter was abducted by the suspect while she was preparing to leave for school. Following the abduction, Ughagha allegedly contacted the father, demanding N503,000 and threatening to kill the minor if the money was not paid. After the ransom was reportedly handed over, the victim was abandoned along Oton Road in Sapele, where she was subsequently reunited with her distraught family.
Upon receiving the report, operatives from the Sapele Area Command swiftly launched an investigation. The victim was immediately taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment. As part of their inquiry, the school principal and vice principal were invited for questioning. Meanwhile, efforts were intensified to locate the suspect, who had abandoned the school bus and fled.
Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives successfully traced Ughagha to his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele. He was apprehended on October 23. During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to his involvement in the heinous crime, providing crucial details to investigators.
Confirming the significant arrest, the command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, stated that arrangements are currently underway to transfer the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further comprehensive investigation. This case underscores the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of children and bringing perpetrators of such crimes to justice.