Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction and gang rape of a 15-year-old girl, identified as Amina Abdullahi, in Gantsare village, Wammako Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The state Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) spokesman, Mohammad Zayyanu, made this known in a press statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday.
Zayyanu asserted that preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was drugged and lured by one Rabia’tu, who remains at large.
He named the suspects as Halidu Shehu (20), who is the principal suspect, Jamilu Umar (20) and Usama Bello (24).
The NSCDC spokesman added that the suspects were arrested on January 23, 2025, after a report was filed by the victim’s parents, who had been searching for their missing daughter.
“The suspects held the victim captive for over three days in the principal suspect’s room, subjecting her to repeated sexual assaults.
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“Efforts are underway to apprehend her. The victim has received medical attention, and results from the examination are awaited to aid in the ongoing investigation.
“This tragic incident reminds us of the need for parents and guardians to remain vigilant and protective of their children. It also highlights the importance of community involvement in promptly reporting suspicious activities to security agencies,” the statement added.
Zayyanu stated that state NSCDC Commandant, Usman Alfadarai, condemned the act, describing it as horrific and inhumane, and assured the public of the command’s commitment to ensuring that the suspects face the full weight of the law.
“Protecting our children is a collective responsibility, and we must remain united in this fight against all forms of criminality,” the statement quoted the commandant as saying.