The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old pastor, Ambros Mark, over allegations that he sexually abused two underage girls aged 13 and 14 in Yenagoa, the state capital.
Mark is the pastor of Point of Redemption Church International, located behind the Amarata area of Yenagoa. The two girls were reportedly members of the church choir.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed the arrest, saying officers attached to the ‘A’ Division acted after receiving a complaint.
According to the police spokesperson, the Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, has directed that the suspect and the case file be transferred to the state police headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reports indicate that the case came to light after the 14-year-old girl allegedly reported the incident to her father, a police officer attached to the state command. The complaint subsequently led to the pastor’s arrest.
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Bayelsa State chapter, has called for a thorough investigation and diligent prosecution in accordance with the law.
The organisation’s chairperson, Dr Boma Miebai, said FIDA was monitoring the case to ensure that the rights and interests of the affected children were protected.
She stressed that the girls deserved safety, dignity, confidentiality and access to appropriate legal and psychosocial support throughout the investigation and any subsequent court proceedings.
Miebai also warned against allowing religious titles or positions to shield anyone from accountability over alleged sexual offences involving children.
The police investigation is ongoing. The allegations against Mark have not been established in court, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.