Cross River Police Detain Two Men Over Alleged Sexual Assault Attempt On Minor
By ARIT OTONG UBOK
THE Cross River State Police Command has arrested two men over the alleged attempted sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl in Calabar South.
Police identified the suspects as Moris Monday, 68, and Asuquo Effiom, 70. Officers arrested both men on 23 August 2026, after the girl’s father reported the alleged incidents.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, preliminary investigations indicate that the girl accused Monday, a shoe repairer, of luring her into his room on two separate occasions.
She alleged that the first incident occurred on 13 August and the second on 14 August. The girl reportedly said Monday attempted to sexually assault her during both encounters.
She also accused Effiom of a similar act on 22 August. According to her account, he allegedly lured her into his room before attempting to sexually assault her.
Following the complaint, police investigators moved to the Hawkins Road area near Thomas Henshaw Junction. Community members had reportedly taken the two suspects into custody before the officers arrived.
The police subsequently took both men into custody for questioning.
Meanwhile, the suspects have made statements to investigators and denied the allegations.
Authorities have also referred the girl to a government-approved medical facility for examination and appropriate care.
The police have since transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a discreet investigation and further legal action.
The Command said investigators would handle the matter professionally and in line with the law. It also assured the public that authorities would communicate further developments as the investigation progresses.
The case has again drawn attention to the need for vigilance around children and prompt reporting of suspected abuse. It also underscores the importance of protecting minors while allowing due process to determine the facts of the allegations.
