The Delta State Police Command has arrested Onome Lucky Ughagha, a 28-year-old school bus driver, over the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 14-year-old female student in Sapele.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to the police, the victim’s father reported the incident to the Sapele Area Command on October 20. He alleged that Ughagha abducted his daughter while she was preparing to leave for school.
The suspect reportedly demanded ₦503,000 from the father and threatened to kill the girl if the money was not paid.
After receiving the ransom, the suspect allegedly abandoned the victim along Oton Road, Sapele. She was later reunited with her family in a traumatised state, with signs of sexual assault.
“Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Sapele Area Command immediately commenced investigations, while the victim was taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment,” Edafe said.
He added that the school principal and vice principal were invited for questioning as police intensified efforts to arrest the suspect, who had fled after abandoning the school bus.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives subsequently traced the suspect to his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, where he was arrested on 23 October 2026. During preliminary interrogation, he reportedly confessed to his involvement in the crime,” the statement added.
Edafe said plans were underway to transfer the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, condemned the incident and vowed to ensure a thorough investigation and bring anyone found guilty to justice. He also urged school authorities, parents and transport operators to remain vigilant in protecting children from violence and exploitation.
