The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 32 year old housewife, Ogechi Ofoma, from Obosi in Idemili North Local Government Area, over the alleged severe physical abuse of her seven-year-old daughter.
The child was rescued following the intervention of security personnel from Ibollo Community, Awada-Obosi, and concerned residents who alerted authorities to the situation.
Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command received a report concerning alleged child abuse and severe bodily injuries involving the seven-year-old girl and promptly commenced action.
Ikenga said preliminary information indicated that the child had been subjected to severe physical abuse, including injuries allegedly inflicted with a heated kitchen knife.
“The prompt intervention of security personnel from the Ibollo Community, Awada-Obosi, and concerned residents led to the child’s rescue and the arrest of her mother, Mrs Ogechi Ofoma, 32,” Ikenga said.
The police condemned the alleged treatment of the child and said investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the law.
The Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Oji Ama, has also directed collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to ensure that the victim receives urgent medical attention, protection and necessary welfare support.
The command urged residents to report suspected cases of child abuse and other forms of violence against vulnerable persons to the appropriate authorities.
