The Bauchi State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on perpetrators of sexual violence, arresting 72 suspects in connection with 44 cases of rape and indecent assault recorded across the state over a period of five months.
The Commissioner of Police, Sani Aliyu, revealed this while briefing journalists in Bauchi.
CP Aliyu assumed duty as the 46th Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command in March this year.
He described the arrests as part of sustained efforts to tackle crimes and protect vulnerable groups, especially women and children, from sexual predators.
The Police Commissioner noted that the fight against sexual and gender-based violence requires collaborative efforts from communities, religious leaders and civil society groups.
He stressed that the Bauchi State Command has adopted intelligence-driven policing which has significantly enhanced its ability to apprehend suspects and bring them to justice.
Aliyu further explained that the arrests fall within the 394 total cases handled by the command, leading to the apprehension of 748 suspects linked to various crimes ranging from armed robbery and culpable homicide to kidnapping, theft and fraud.
He assured residents that the Command, under his leadership, would continue to prioritise the safety of women and children, while ensuring that perpetrators of sexual violence face the full wrath of the law.
He urged parents, guardians and community members to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected cases of abuse.
The Commissioner commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for providing strategic guidance and resources that have strengthened policing operations in Bauchi State.
