Police refute arresting rape victim in Ogun

Police refute arresting rape victim in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has clarified reports surrounding a viral TikTok video claiming a violent sexual assault in Ogun, stressing that the victim was not arrested when she first came forward

The controversy began on Sunday after TikToker Mirabel (@mirab351) posted a distressing video claiming she had been sexually assaulted in her apartment.

In the clip, which quickly went viral on social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), she alleged that a stranger had broken into her home while she was unconscious, physically assaulted her, and raped her.

She also claimed the attacker sent threatening messages and that she had attempted suicide due to the trauma. The video sparked widespread outrage, sympathy, and calls for justice.

Initial reports placed the incident in Lagos, prompting the Lagos State Police and related agencies to respond. However, preliminary checks revealed the alleged incident occurred in Ogijo, Ogun State, shifting responsibility to the Ogun State Police Command.

Following the viral post, some social media users began claiming that Mirabel had been arrested, suggesting she may have fabricated the story due to alleged inconsistencies in her account.

The police quickly addressed these rumours.

The Ogun State Police spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi in a post on X on Thursday, said Mirabel reportedly presented herself voluntarily at the Ibafo Police Division on Wednesday, February 18, to file a formal report.

After preliminary evaluation, she was conveyed to Ogijo Division, the correct jurisdiction, where it was confirmed she was not in a stable condition to provide further details.

According to the statement, “She was immediately taken for a comprehensive medical check-up, and her health is being closely monitored, as her wellbeing remains paramount. At no time was the victim arrested.”

The police emphasised that the matter is being handled professionally and urged the public to rely on verified information.

Babaseyi added, “The Police are handling the matter professionally and urge the public to verify information through official channels before dissemination.”

Culled from punch