The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old school bus driver, Onome Lucky Ughagha, over the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 14-year-old female student in Sapele, Delta State.
The suspect allegedly demanded and collected ₦503,000 ransom from the victim’s father before abandoning the girl along Oton Road, Sapele.
The incident was reported at the Sapele Area Command on October 20, 2026, by the victim’s father, who alleged that the suspect abducted his daughter while she was preparing to leave for school.
According to the police, the suspect subsequently contacted the father, demanded ₦503,000 and threatened to kill the minor if the ransom was not paid.
Following payment, the victim was reportedly abandoned along Oton Road, where she was reunited with her family in a traumatised condition, with indications of sexual assault.
The police said operatives immediately commenced investigations, while the victim was taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment.
The school principal and vice principal were also invited for questioning as efforts intensified to apprehend the suspect, who reportedly abandoned the school bus and fled.
Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives traced Ughagha to his hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, where he was arrested on October 23.
The suspect reportedly confessed to his involvement in the crime during preliminary interrogation.
The police said arrangements were underway to transfer him to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Asaba, for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, condemned the incident and reaffirmed the Command's commitment to protecting children against violence and exploitation.
He assured that investigations would be thorough and anyone found culpable would be brought to justice.
The Commissioner also urged school authorities, parents and transport operators to strengthen vigilance and prioritise the safety of children entrusted to their care.
