The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued a two-month-old baby and arrested a suspect in Ikot Abasi, while also apprehending a man over the alleged defilement of a four-year-old in Mkpanak Village, Mbo Local Government Area, the command announced on Monday.
The baby, reportedly two months and three weeks old, was abducted on February 26, 2026. The child’s mother, identified as Peace, told police she had briefly left the baby in the care of the grandmother. Upon returning, she discovered the baby missing.
Investigations revealed that 23-year-old Goodnews ‘F’ of Ikot Etetuk village allegedly tore the window net of the room and took the child. A swift search operation led to the suspect’s arrest, and the baby was safely recovered.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, said the Command remains committed to protecting children and prosecuting offenders. “Parents and guardians are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take necessary security precautions”, he said.
In a separate case, the command arrested 36-year-old Joseph Mbake, a Cameroonian national and fisherman residing in Mkpanak village, over the alleged sexual abuse of a four-year-old girl.
The offence reportedly occurred on February 14, 2026, and came to light on February 24 when the child’s mother noticed a suspicious discharge during bathing.
The child was taken for medical attention, and police, acting on credible intelligence, arrested the suspect on March 1. An identification parade confirmed that the child could identify the suspect.
The police reiterated their strong condemnation of all forms of sexual abuse, especially against minors and urged parents and guardians to report any suspicious behaviour promptly to the nearest police station.
