Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have arrested Uzoma Uwaeme for allegedly stripping, tying up and flogging his 13-year-old son under the scorching sun in Aba, Abia State.
The command disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, identifying the suspect as the teenager’s biological father. The boy’s mother was reportedly said to have left the marriage.
The arrest followed a viral social media video showing the teenager tied with ropes, visibly injured and exposed to the harsh weather.
Following the video, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, reportedly ordered operatives of the Abayi Divisional Police Headquarters to track down and arrest the suspect at his residence on Nwokocha Street, off Udeabara Road, Aba.
Confirming the arrest, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the teenager had been rescued and taken for medical treatment.
“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation, as the suspect is in Police custody.
“The victim has received medical attention, is in stable condition, and is currently under the protective custody of the Police,” Chinaka stated.
CP Afolabi reportedly condemned the incident, describing it as inhumane, barbaric and a serious violation of the child’s rights.
“He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for all forms of child abuse and domestic violence, and assured the public that the suspect will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The police also urged members of the public to stay vigilant and promptly report cases of abuse or criminality to the nearest Police station or through the Command’s dedicated contact lines.