The Cross River State Police Command announced the arrest of Bright Bassey Elijah, a 22-year-old security guard, on Tuesday. Elijah was attached to a nursery and primary school in Calabar, where the alleged incident occurred. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the arrest was made after the proprietress of the school reported the incident to the police command on September 28.
The alleged incident involved Elijah taking the five-year-old pupil to an uncompleted building near the school, where the assault is believed to have occurred. The police command stated that Elijah is currently in custody and that preliminary investigations are ongoing. The command assured the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally and in accordance with due process.
The police command emphasized that the matter is being treated with seriousness due to the age of the alleged victim. As part of the investigation, Elijah will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry. The command urged parents, guardians, school authorities, and the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of child abuse or exploitation to the police promptly.
In addition to ensuring a thorough investigation, the police command cautioned against sharing the identity, photographs, or other identifying information of the child to protect her privacy and welfare. The public was assured that all necessary protocols would be followed to ensure the child's safety and well-being.
The arrest of Elijah has raised concerns about the safety and security of pupils in schools. The incident highlights the need for schools to ensure that their staff and security personnel are properly vetted and trained to handle their responsibilities. The police command's swift response to the incident has been commended by many, who hope that it will serve as a deterrent to others who may be inclined to engage in similar behavior.
The Cross River State Police Command's efforts to address the issue of child abuse and exploitation are ongoing. The command has been working to strengthen its child protection units and provide support to victims of child abuse. The public has been encouraged to cooperate with the police and report any suspicious behavior to help prevent such incidents in the future.
The case is ongoing, with further investigations and possible prosecution pending. The police have assured the public that they will do everything in their power to ensure that justice is served and that the victim receives the necessary support and care.
Key points
- The suspect, Bright Bassey Elijah, is currently in police custody, and preliminary investigations into the incident are ongoing.
- The police command urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of child abuse or exploitation to the police promptly.
- The incident highlights the need for schools to ensure that their staff and security personnel are properly vetted and trained to handle their responsibilities.
