Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command have arrested an 18-year-old boy, Basit Tijani, for allegedly defiling a 17-year-old girl.

Spokesperson for the command, Ayanlade Olayinka, in a statement on Friday, said the suspect had carnal knowledge of the victim without her consent after luring her into his room.

While restating the command’s commitment to combat sexual and gender-based violence, Mr Olayinka said officers of the Ilero Divisional Police Headquarters arrested the suspect, who confessed to the crime and is now cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the suspect allegedly lured the victim into his room and unlawfully had carnal knowledge of her without her consent. The incident was promptly reported to the police, thereby enabling swift intervention.

“Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Ilero division immediately mobilised to the scene, secured the area, rescued the victim, and ensured her evacuation to a medical facility where she received a comprehensive medical examination and socio-psychological support in line with established protocols for handling sexual offences,” the police spokesman said.

The state commissioner of police, Femi Haruna, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) gender desk for a discreet and comprehensive investigation.

He also disclosed that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

The command assured residents that perpetrators of such heinous acts will be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.

It encouraged parents, guardians, and community leaders to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.