The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old school bus driver, identified as Onome Lucky Ughagha, over the alleged kidnapping and sexual assault of a 14-year-old female student in Sapele, Delta State.
According to the police, the incident was reported on October 20, 2026, after the victim’s father alleged that the driver abducted his daughter while she was preparing to leave for school. The suspect reportedly demanded ₦503,000 in ransom and threatened to kill the teenager if the money was not paid.
Police said the girl was abandoned along Oton Road in Sapele after the ransom was allegedly collected. She was later reunited with her family in a traumatised condition and taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment.
The suspect reportedly abandoned the school bus and fled after the incident. However, operatives acting on intelligence traced him to a hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele, where he was arrested on October 23. Police said he reportedly confessed during preliminary interrogation, while the school’s principal and vice-principal were also invited for questioning.
The Delta State Police Command said arrangements were underway to transfer the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further investigation. The Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, condemned the incident and urged parents, school authorities and transport operators to strengthen measures to protect children.