The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old Cameroonian fisherman, Joseph Mbake, for allegedly defiling a four-year-old child in Mkpanak Village, Ibeno Local Government Area.

Spokesperson DSP Timfon John confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday, explaining that the suspect was picked up following an intensive manhunt by operatives.

According to the command, the victim’s mother, identified as Gift, discovered the incident on February 24, 2026, at about 2:00 p.m. while bathing her daughter.

“She observed a suspicious discharge from the private part of her four-year-old daughter while bathing her,” the PPRO stated. “Upon careful questioning, the child alleged that she had been sexually abused by an adult male who she stated she could identify if seen.”

The police promptly issued a medical examination form, and the child was taken for immediate medical attention.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives arrested Mbake, a fisherman resident in Mkpanak Village, in the early hours of March 1, alongside others for investigation.

An identification parade was subsequently conducted in accordance with laid-down procedures, during which the victim positively identified the suspect.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the alleged incident occurred on February 14, 2026.

“The Command strongly condemns all forms of sexual abuse, especially against minors,” DSP John said, assuring the public of the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the society.

The police urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious behaviour to the nearest station.