Arrest in Nasarawa as police detained a pastor over the alleged defilement of a minor after investigators said the suspect deceived the victim’s guardian and took her to a hotel.
LAFIA, Nigeria – A shocking arrest has been made in Nasarawa State after police detained a 37-year-old pastor over the alleged defilement of a minor.
The Nasarawa State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday in Lafia by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel.
According to police, the suspect was apprehended by operatives attached to the Karshi Divisional Headquarters over the alleged assault of a 16-year-old girl.
Authorities said the arrest followed a complaint lodged at the division on April 18, 2026, at about 8:00 p.m.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly deceived the victim’s aunt by claiming the girl was possessed and required spiritual cleansing at a river.
Police said he allegedly took the victim to a hotel in New Karshi instead, where the offence was said to have occurred.
Investigators added that the suspect allegedly threatened the victim to prevent disclosure of the incident.
The command said the case came to light after the victim’s guardian noticed unusual behavioural changes and questioned her.
The guardian later took the girl for medical examination, which police said supported the complaint under investigation.
Nansel stated that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed and pleaded for leniency.
The Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro-Mohammed, has directed that the matter be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lafia for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.
Police assured the public that justice would be pursued in accordance with the law.
The command also urged residents to remain cautious about individuals who present themselves as clerics and to promptly report suspicious conduct to authorities.
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