Authorities in Imo State have apprehended a 43-year-old man following serious allegations of sexually assaulting his young niece. The suspect, identified as Kelechi Nwosu, is accused of defiling his sister's seven-year-old daughter.
Community Hands Suspect to Police
The incident reportedly took place on December 20, 2025, in the Umuobi Umukam community within the Obollo Autonomous Community of Isiala Mbano Local Government Area. According to details provided by activist and journalist Chidiebube Okeoma, community members first detained Nwosu before transferring him to the Isiala Mbano Divisional Police Headquarters.
He was subsequently moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Owerri for further interrogation and processing. The arrest highlights a collaborative effort between local residents and law enforcement to address the crime.
Medical Evidence Confirms Assault
Okeoma, who leads the human rights organization Stand For Humanity Foundation, confirmed that a medical examination was conducted at a police clinic in Owerri on Tuesday, December 23. The examination provided concrete evidence of the assault.
The medical report confirmed penetration and also revealed that the suspect had transmitted a urinary tract infection to the minor. The foundation stated that medical tests were also performed on the suspect to ascertain his health status and protect the child's well-being.
The young victim's statement to both the police and the rights group indicated that the alleged defilement occurred on two separate occasions, taking advantage of a moment when other family members were away at the farm.
Police Vow to Prosecute, Community Praised
The Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, has confirmed the arrest. He stated that the suspect would be charged in court once the police conclude their investigation.
In a statement, the Stand For Humanity Foundation commended the people of Umuobi Umukam Obollo for their decisive action. "By this act, the people... have demonstrated that they are true apostles of justice," the statement read, urging other communities to emulate this stance against child abuse.
The foundation also expressed gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner of Police at the SCID for his professional handling of the case, which was reported directly by Okeoma. They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that abusers of children face the full wrath of the law and vowed continued support for victims of battery and injustice.
