By Sandra Kenneth
The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 45-year-old artisan, Mukaila Adeyemo, following allegations that he defiled a minor on multiple occasions in Ikire town.
According to a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the suspect exploited his close relationship with the victim’s grandmother to carry out the attacks.
How the Incidents Unfolded
Investigators revealed that the abuse occurred twice under different pretexts:
The September Incident: Adeyemo allegedly lured the victim to his room under the guise of sending her on an errand to purchase some items. Once inside, he assaulted the minor.
The October Incident: On October 2—which coincided with the victim’s birthday—the young girl visited Adeyemo to request a birthday gift. After giving her one thousand naira (N1,000) and asking her to buy him some biscuits at his workshop in the Ilupeju area, the suspect dragged her into a nearby bush and defiled her.
Swift Action by Passersby
The suspect’s actions were exposed when passersby spotted them near the bush. Realizing he had been seen, Adeyemo attempted to flee into the bushes.
However, observant onlookers intervened after questioning the distressed victim, pursued the suspect, successfully apprehended him, and handed him over to the local police division.
Police Appeal to Parents and Public
In the wake of the incident, the police command has urged parents and guardians to remain highly vigilant regarding the safety and movements of their children.
“The Command wishes to encourage members of the public, especially parents, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established police emergency channels,” Ojelabi stated.
