The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 37-year-old man, Wisdom Benoie, for allegedly sexually assaulting his 15-year-old stepdaughter on multiple occasions at their residence in Yalwan Tsakani area of Bauchi.

According to a statement released on Monday by the command's spokesperson, Ahmed Wakil, officers attached to Operation Restore Peace, led by CSP Kim Abert, intervened following credible intelligence about a mob action against the suspect on May 31, 2025.

The police statement revealed that the incident came to light after the victim's father reported the matter to the Operation Restore Peace unit in Yalwan Tsakani. Local youths had confronted Benoie after suspecting him of secretly molesting his stepdaughter.

"It was disclosed that he allegedly sexually assaulted the victim on multiple occasions while her mother was asleep, entering her room and engaging in non-consensual acts," the statement read.

The victim, whose identity has been protected (referred to as Joy, not her real name), had reportedly been suffering in silence until she eventually confided in neighbors. This led to a coordinated intervention that caught the suspect in the act.

Following the arrest, the victim has been taken to a medical facility for examination and care, while the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Police Command, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for thorough investigation.

The police spokesperson confirmed that upon completion of investigations, the suspect will be charged to court for prosecution.

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of sexual violence against minors in Nigeria, particularly within family settings, and underscores the importance of community vigilance and prompt police intervention in protecting vulnerable children.