Police arrest mother over brutal abuse of 7-year-old daughter

Nkechi David Iwuchukwu, Awka

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old woman, Mrs. Ogechi Ofoma, following the alleged brutal abuse of her seven-year-old daughter, Oluebube Ofoma, in Awada-Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.

The Command, in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the incident was reported on the evening of Sunday, September 13, 2026, following the discovery of the child with severe bodily injuries.

According to the police, security personnel from Ibollo Community, Awada-Obosi, working with concerned residents, rescued the girl and arrested her mother, who is alleged to have subjected the child to severe physical abuse.

Preliminary investigations, the Command said, indicated that the victim allegedly sustained serious injuries, reportedly inflicted with a hot knife.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, strongly condemned the alleged abuse and vowed that the police would ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.

CP Nnanna has also commenced collaboration with the Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare to secure urgent medical attention, protection and other necessary welfare support for the child.

The Commissioner commended the vigilance and swift intervention of the Ibollo Community security personnel and residents, saying their prompt action helped rescue the victim and prevent further harm.

The Command assured the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally, thoroughly and without compromise, stressing that the welfare, safety and best interests of the child remain paramount.

The police further reaffirmed their commitment to working with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to protect children and other vulnerable persons from abuse and ensure accountability in accordance with the law.