Delta School Bus Driver Arrested Over Alleged Rape, Kidnap

A school bus driver in Delta State has been arrested over the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 14-year-old female student in Sapele.

The suspect allegedly collected 503-thousand naira from the victim’s father as ransom before abandoning the teenager along Oton Road.

According to a statement by the Delta state Police Command Public Relations Officer Edafe Bright, the victim’s father reported the incident on October 20, alleging that the suspect abducted his daughter as she prepared to leave for school.

The suspect reportedly demanded 503-thousand naira and threatened to kill the teenager if the money was not paid.

After collecting the ransom, he allegedly abandoned the girl along Oton Road, where she was reunited with her family in a traumatised condition.

Edafe Bright says the victim was taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment, while investigations commenced.

The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Onome Lucky Ughagha, reportedly abandoned the school bus and fled.

However, acting on intelligence, police operatives traced him to a hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, where he was arrested on October 23.

The police say the suspect confessed during preliminary interrogation. He is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further investigation.
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The incident raises fresh concerns about the safety of children in school transportation and the responsibility of adults entrusted with their care.

The Delta State Police Command is urging parents, school authorities and transport operators to remain vigilant, stressing that protecting children from violence and exploitation must be a priority.

As investigations continue, the focus will be on ensuring justice for the young victim and strengthening safeguards for children travelling to and from school.