Three men have been arrested by the Edo State Police Command over the brutal gang-r3pe of a 12-year-old girl identified as Esther.

The heart wrenching incident occurred on December 24, 2024, in Okpella, Estsako East Local Government Area of the state.

It was gathered that five men gang-r*ped the minor, recorded the heinous act and posted the video on social media.

The victim was brought to the State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues on January 8, 2025, by her mother and the Queen of Okpella.

She is currently receiving treatment and counseling at a government shelter, where she is being provided with a safe haven from potential threats in her community.

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edisili Anani, on Friday, January 10, visited the victim and her mother, offering sympathy and praise for their bravery.

Mrs. Anani assured them of the government’s commitment to ensuring justice is served.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Mrs. Irenonsen Joy Ihensekhien, disclosed that three out of the five perpetrators are currently in the State police command , while the remaining two are at large.

Mrs Ihensenkien beckoned on the public to always speak out and take advantage of free services of the sexual assault referral centre (SARC).

Society to Heighten Awareness of Women and Child Abuse (SOTHAWACA) emphasized the need for frequent clinical therapy sessions to help Ms. Esther cope with the trauma.

“The victim has been mute since the incidence, and only recently started uttering a few words. It’s essential that we provide her with the necessary support to overcome this traumatic experience,” she noted.