A 31-year-old student pastor has been arrested by the police in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State for allegedly defiling a 15-year-old girl.
The suspect, identified as Pastor Moses Ifeanyichukwu Gabriel, a theology student in the area, was apprehended following a report made by a human rights group, Behind Bars Defenders, Abia State chapter.
According to a statement jointly signed by the group’s State Director, Ochiegbu Marvelous, and Public Relations Officer, Nony Philip, the case was brought to their attention by the mother of the victim, who alleged that her daughter was sexually assaulted by the suspect.
“Acting swiftly, the organisation reported the matter to the Divisional Police Officer of Ubakala Division, who ensured the suspect’s prompt arrest on November 6, 2025,” the statement read.
The group said the suspect was subsequently transferred to the Gender Desk Unit of the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Umuahia, for further investigation and prosecution.
It was also alleged that the victim contracted an infection as a result of the assault.
Behind Bars Defenders condemned the incident, reiterating its zero tolerance for sexual abuse, rape, and other forms of violence against children and women.
The organisation urged the Abia State government, security agencies, religious institutions, and the public to strengthen efforts to protect vulnerable persons from sexual and gender-based violence.
Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the incident was reported at the Ubakala Divisional Police Station before being transferred to the State CID for in-depth investigation.
Chinaka added that further inquiries were ongoing and that the police would ensure justice was served.
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