The Anambra State Police Command has arraigned 12 suspects before the Gender Magistrate Court sitting in Awka, the state capital.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects were arraigned on Wednesday on charges including rape, defilement, child abuse, abduction, and assault.
The first set of suspects arraigned comprises Chima Onyeanuna, Emeka Muo, and Okafor Chibundu. They are facing charges of the alleged abduction and defilement of a 14-year-old girl in Nanka.
In a separate case, operatives also arraigned Chukwudi Ugwu Jeremiah for the alleged defilement of an 11-year-old girl on Slaughter Lane, Awka.
Also arraigned were Ndubuisi Ikechebelu, Udogu Kennedy, Nnamah Christopher, and Chinecherem Emmanuel. They are facing charges of allegedly raping a 19-year-old girl on separate occasions, resulting in pregnancy.
In another case, Charity Anakwe and Chidiere Anakwe were arraigned for the alleged assault of their 12-year-old domestic worker.
The court also heard the case against Chukwudi Joseph, who was arraigned for the alleged assault of a 12-year-old girl in Ozubulu. Chibuike Agu was also arraigned for the alleged defilement of a 13-year-old girl in Fegge.
Following their arraignment, the court ordered that all the suspects be remanded at the Awka Correctional Centre pending the hearing of their respective cases.
The command reiterated its zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse, and all forms of violence against vulnerable persons.
It also assured the public that the police would continue to investigate such cases diligently and ensure that offenders are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
