The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man over the alleged rape of an 11-year-old girl in Yala Local Government Area of the state.

The incident was reported to the Okpoma Divisional Police Headquarters on October 24 by the victim’s father, who alleged that the suspect lured and sexually assaulted the child on October 18 before leaving her at a location within the community.

The police said the girl had been referred to a general hospital for medical examination, while the suspect was arrested and detained.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Akata, said the Commissioner of Police, Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, had directed that the investigation be concluded promptly and the case file transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

The command reiterated its commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons, urging members of the public to report suspected sexual offences promptly.

It also appealed to the public not to circulate information or images that could identify the victim or expose her to further harm.

The police emphasised that the suspect remained presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.