Police arrest man over defilement of 15-year-old in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, identified as Wisdom Onyeaju, over an alleged case of defilement involving a 15-year-old girl, following public outrage triggered by a viral social media video.

The command also confirmed that police officers accused of misconduct in the handling of the case have been identified and detained.

The arrest followed a video posted on January 3 by the victim’s sister, who alleged that the suspect forcefully entered the girl’s home during the Christmas period, threatened her with a knife and assaulted her.

The video further claimed that officers at a police station near the Government House in Owerri demanded ₦100,000 from the family before agreeing to record the victim’s statement.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, said Onyeaju, a native of Umuekweye, Irete, in Owerri West Local Government Area, was taken into custody in connection with the allegation.

According to the statement, the suspect is currently being investigated at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The police spokesperson also disclosed that officers accused of professional misconduct in the case have been detained, adding that an orderly room trial has been scheduled to begin on Monday, January 12, 2026, in line with police regulations.

The Imo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to professionalism, transparency and accountability, assuring the public that appropriate action would be taken to ensure justice is served.