A guy named Uzoma Uwaeme was taken into custody by Abia State Police Command officers for stripping nude, tying up, and flogging his 13-year-old son in the sweltering heat of Aba, Abia State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Abia State Police Command revealed that the suspect is the victim’s biological father, whose mother is said to have divorced him.
A widely shared video on social media that showed the adolescent bound with ropes, clearly hurt, and exposed to inclement weather is said to have been the catalyst for the arrest.
According to reports, Abia State Commissioner of Police CP Wilfred Afolabi responded to the video by ordering Abayi Divisional Police Headquarters personnel to track down and capture the culprit at his home on Nwokocha Street, off Udeabara Road, Aba.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the arrest in the statement and revealed that the adolescent had been saved and treated.
Since the suspect is being held by the police, the matter has been moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a covert investigation.
Chinaka said, “The victim has received medical attention, is in stable condition, and is currently under the protective custody of the Police.”
Additionally, it was reported that CP Afolabi vehemently denounced the act, calling it brutal, inhumane, and a flagrant violation of children’s rights.
“He assured the public that the suspect will be prosecuted in accordance with the law and reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for all forms of domestic violence and child abuse,” the statement continued.
Additionally, the Command asked the public to be watchful and to report any abuse or criminal activity as soon as possible to the closest police station or via the public’s designated lines.
