Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested Joseph Mbake, 36, a Cameroonian national and fisherman, for allegedly defiling a four-year-old child in Mkpanak community. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed the development in a statement issued in Uyo on Monday.
According to DSP John, the mother of the victim reported noticing a suspicious discharge from her daughter’s private parts while bathing her. She said, “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.”
The PPRO added that, acting on credible intelligence, police operatives expanded surveillance within the neighbourhood. “In the early hours of 1st March, 2026, one Joseph Mbake ‘M’, 36 years, a Cameroonian national and fisherman resident in Mkpanak Village, was arrested alongside others for investigation. An identification parade was subsequently conducted in accordance with laid-down procedures, during which the victim identified the suspect. Preliminary investigation reveals that the alleged incident occurred on 14th February, 2026,” he stated.
DSP John emphasized that the Command strongly condemns all forms of sexual abuse, particularly against minors, and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society. He also advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station.
