The Yobe State Police Command has arrested a 35 year old man, identified as Aliyu Yarima of Potiskum Local Government Area, over the alleged defilement of a 16 year-old girl in Babbangida town, Tarmuwa Local Government Area.

Police said the suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Tarmuwa Divisional Police Headquarters after a distress report was lodged by concerned individuals in the community. The case has drawn renewed attention to the vulnerability of minors and the growing demand for accountability in sexual violence cases across the state.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, investigators established that the suspect allegedly lured the teenager and offered her a soft drink suspected to have been laced with hard drugs. The substance reportedly rendered her unconscious, after which she was taken to his residence.

According to the police, it was at the suspect’s home that the alleged rape occurred. The victim was said to have suffered serious internal injuries, a condition that not only caused her severe pain but also contributed to the delay in formally reporting the incident to authorities.

Family members and neighbours later rushed the girl to the General Hospital in Babbangida, where medical personnel conducted an examination. The police spokesperson disclosed that the medical report confirmed that the minor had been sexually assaulted, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.

SP Abdulkarim stated that detectives are continuing with a detailed investigation to establish all the facts surrounding the incident, including the alleged use of drugs and any possible accomplices. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the suspect is expected to be charged in court to face prosecution under relevant laws dealing with sexual offences and child protection.

The Yobe State Police Command used the case to reiterate its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. SP Abdulkarim urged residents to promptly report any suspected case of sexual abuse, exploitation or related crimes to the nearest police station, stressing that early reporting can be critical for preserving evidence and securing justice for victims.

The command also appealed to parents, guardians and community leaders to remain vigilant, monitor the movement of minors under their care and support survivors who come forward with complaints of abuse, assuring that such reports will be treated with confidentiality and seriousness.