The man declared wanted by the Borno State Police Command for the alleged r@pe of a five-year-old girl has surrendered himself to authorities. This development came hours after police launched an intensive manhunt for the suspect.
Suspect Presents Himself to Authorities
Abdulsalam M. Adakwaki, the individual accused of assaulting the minor in the State Low-Cost area of Maiduguri, voluntarily presented himself to the police. The Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, confirmed the incident in an official statement released on the evening of Thursday, December 18.
The case was initiated after the police received a formal petition alleging that the suspect attacked the young girl while she was on her way to school. Following the report, law enforcement agencies immediately declared him wanted and began searching for his whereabouts.
Investigation Underway with Assurances of Transparency
The police spokesperson stated that Abdulsalam M. Adakwaki is now in custody and is undergoing a detailed investigation handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). ASP Daso emphasized that the probe is being conducted with the highest levels of professionalism, diligence, and sensitivity.
In a move to ensure public confidence, the police command has opened the investigative process to oversight by relevant Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The command strongly assured the public that justice will be pursued and that the matter will be thoroughly investigated.
Police Warn Against Media Trial and Misinformation
The Borno Police Command issued a stern warning to the public, particularly regarding activities on social media. They cautioned against circulating or sharing photographs and personal details of both the suspect and the victim, describing such actions as a "media trial" that could prejudice the ongoing judicial processes.
Members of the public were advised to be wary of false, misleading, or unverified information relating to the case. The police encouraged citizens to remain calm, exercise restraint, and continue to cooperate by providing any useful information through the appropriate channels. The command provided emergency contact numbers: 08068075581 and 08023473293.
The police promised to provide further updates as the investigation by the SCID progresses.
