The Airport Police Command has arrested a 17-year-old male suspect over the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl in Abuja.
The incident occurred on August 15, 2026, in the Sabo Masalashi area of Bassa, Abuja. According to the Command, the case was reported by the victim’s mother at the Abuja Airport Police Division.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Airport Police Command, ASP Mohammed Adeola, disclosed the development in a statement. The Command said the suspect allegedly lured the girl into his room under the pretext of buying soya bean cake she was selling.
According to the police, the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted the girl after she entered the room. The circumstances surrounding the incident are now being investigated by the Airport Police Command.
Sexual Assault Case Triggers Immediate Police Response
Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Abuja Airport Police Division, moved to ensure the girl received immediate attention. The police also advised the victim’s parents and facilitated prompt medical attention for her.
Personnel were subsequently mobilised to locate the suspect. The 17-year-old was later arrested and taken into police custody as investigators began gathering information about the alleged sexual assault.
The Command said the suspect’s statement was obtained in the presence of his mother. This, it explained, was done in line with applicable procedures for dealing with juvenile suspects.
The police have not indicated that the investigation has been concluded. Therefore, the allegation remains subject to the outcome of the investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings.
The Command said it has also taken steps to safeguard the welfare and wellbeing of the victim. This includes ensuring that appropriate support and protection measures remain in place during the investigation.
The suspect is expected to be brought before a juvenile court of competent jurisdiction after the investigation is completed. The process will determine the next legal steps in the case.
Airport Police Command Condemns Sexual Violence
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, CP Olufunke Ogunbode condemned the alleged incident.
She reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for rape, sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence. She also directed the DPO to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect the victim.
CP Ogunbode further directed that the investigation should proceed in accordance with the law. She stressed the importance of facilitating justice while protecting the welfare of those involved.
The case highlights the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to respond swiftly when allegations involving children are reported. It also underscores the need for victims and their families to receive appropriate protection during investigations.
The Nigeria Police Force says its mandate includes preventing and detecting crime, apprehending offenders, protecting life and property, and enforcing applicable laws. Its official website provides information about its structure, services and investigative functions.
The Airport Police Command has not disclosed further details about the alleged sexual assault beyond the information contained in its statement. The investigation remains ongoing, while the suspect remains in police custody.
As the process continues, the authorities are expected to balance the pursuit of justice with the protection of the 14-year-old victim. The juvenile status of the suspect also means that applicable procedures governing children in conflict with the law will apply.
The case therefore remains at the investigation stage. Any determination of criminal responsibility will ultimately depend on the evidence gathered and the proceedings before the appropriate court.
