A school bus driver in Delta State has been arrested over the alleged abduction and sexual assault of a 14-year-old student in Sapele after reportedly collecting ₦503,000 from her father as ransom.
The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Onome Ughagha, was apprehended on October 23 in a hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, three days after the incident was reported to the police.
Delta State Police Command spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued to journalists in Warri on Sunday.
Edafe said the girl’s father reported on October 20 that the driver had abducted his daughter as she prepared to leave for school. The suspect allegedly contacted him, demanded ₦503,000 and threatened to kill the teenager if the money was not paid.
After the ransom was collected, the girl was reportedly abandoned along Oton Road in Sapele and later reunited with her family. Police said she was traumatised, with indications that she had been sexually assaulted.
Investigators took the student to a medical facility for examination and treatment. The school’s principal and vice-principal were also invited for questioning as officers pursued the suspect, who had reportedly abandoned the school bus and fled.
According to Edafe, operatives traced Ughagha through intelligence-led efforts and arrested him. The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in the alleged crime during preliminary interrogation.
Police said arrangements were underway to transfer him to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further investigation.
Delta State Commissioner of Police Samuel Erale condemned the incident and pledged a thorough investigation, saying anyone found culpable would face justice.
He also urged school authorities, parents and transport operators to strengthen measures to protect children from violence and exploitation.
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