A Canada-based Nigerian, Idris Olajide Oladejo, has been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference following the alleged assault of a child at a grocery store in Toronto.
The Toronto Police Service disclosed in separate statements that the 35-year-old Toronto resident was arrested on June 23 after investigators identified him as the prime suspect in the incident.
According to the police, the alleged offence occurred on June 21 at about 7 p.m. in the Victoria Park Avenue and St. Clair Avenue East area of Toronto.
Authorities said the child was at the grocery store with their parents when the alleged assault occurred.
Police said the suspect fled the scene immediately after the incident but was pursued by a civilian before escaping.
Following the report, investigators released a description of the suspect and appealed to members of the public for information that could assist in locating him.
The suspect was initially described as a man believed to be about 30 years old with a slim build, last seen wearing a green T-shirt, dark-coloured Adidas shorts and pink Crocs.
Providing an update on the investigation, the Toronto Police Service announced that Oladejo had been arrested and charged with one count each of sexual assault and sexual interference.
Police said he was scheduled to appear before the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on June 23.
The service explained that under Canadian law, sexual assault refers to any form of unwanted sexual contact, including but not limited to kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration.
The authorities, however, noted that the charges remain allegations and that the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The case is expected to proceed through the Canadian judicial process as investigations continue.
