Rising rape cases: Plateau CP frown sat plea bargain by religious leaders
The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State command, CP Bassey Ewah has raised the alarm over growing cases of rape and defilement of minors in the state. The CP also threatened
The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State command, CP Bassey Ewah has raised the alarm over growing cases of rape and defilement of minors in the state.
The CP also threatened to detain any traditional or religious leader who approaches the command with plea to settle cases of rapes and defilement at family and community level.
CP Ewah gave the warning while parading over 20 suspects involved in rape, defilement and sexual violence before newsmen at the State CID Jos on Friday.
Text of the police briefing contained over 10 incidences of rape and sexual violence that occurred within the last one month across the state.
According to the CP, "Ladies and Gentlemen, it has come to my notice, a disturbing epidemic of Rape and Defilement in Plateau State. This heinous crime is no longer limited to attacks on women and girls. We are now recording cases where little boys and girls are being raped, often by persons entrusted with their care and protection as guardians.
"This is an abomination and a betrayal of trust that will not be tolerated.
"Even more worrisome is the emerging trend where some traditional and religious leaders approach the Police to plead that such matters be “settled at home” in order to protect the image of families or communities involved.
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"Let me state this unequivocally: Rape and Defilement are not family matters. They are felonies against the state. No individual, group, or institution has the authority to shield offenders from justice.
"This development is disheartening, and I condemn it in the strongest terms. Therefore, I have issued firm directives to the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) that all reported cases of rape and defilement must be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the laws of the State. There will be no “settlement” at any Police Division or Formation within the State.
"Furthermore, any person - regardless of status, title, or office - who approaches the Police to plead on behalf of a rape or defilement suspect will be arrested and charged as an accessory after the fact. You cannot obstruct justice and claim to be a custodian of peace.
“To parents and guardians: I urge you to be vigilant. Protect your children, and report any suspicion or incident immediately to the nearest police station or through the emergency lines made available on our Social Media platforms.”
