By Ike Uchechukwu CALABAR
A six-year-old girl has been confirmed dead after her stepfather allegedly beat her to death over accusations that she was a witch.
Vanguard learned that the incident, which happened in Bakassi LGA of Cross River State, has left residents of the area in shock.
The tragic incident has also added to the number of witchcraft-branded killings, which is on the rise in the state
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah , the Command confirmed the arrest of Saviour Otu Adim, 29, in connection with the death of Miss Goodness Ekpo Okon, following a report filed by Mrs Itoro Udofia on Friday
According to Eitokpah, preliminary findings suggest the suspect had accused the child of witchcraft before allegedly assaulting her, leading to her death.
“The suspect is currently in Police custody, while the remains of the deceased have been deposited at a mortuary for autopsy,” Akata stated,
He added that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Calabar, for further investigation.
The PRO decried the killing and renewed the Command’s call for vigilance against child abuse
“We urge members of the public to protect children, promptly report cases of abuse, and refrain from spreading unverified information or taking the law into their own hands,” he said.
The incident has reignited concerns over witchcraft-related child abuse in parts of the state, with residents calling for stiffer penalties and sustained public enlightenment against such beliefs.
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