A number of people will be questioned soon for allegedly assisting a 31-year-old Lautoka man wanted for raping a 6-year-old girl.

The man was on the run from late last month.

Police Chief of Intelligence and Investigations ACP Henry Brown says information has been gathered that the suspect was assisted by certain members of the community and this is of great concern.

ACP Brown says police have reiterated on numerous occasions that tackling sexual offences against women and children is going to need the support of the community.

He says considering the severity of the case and several pleas for assistance there were certain members of the community who were intent on helping the suspect evade Police.

ACP Brown says as a result the investigation will focus on both the alleged rape as well as those who have been assisting the suspect.

The man remains in custody at the Lautoka Police Station.

A team of officers arrested the 31-year-old man at Naroro settlement in Nadroga on Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile police are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect wanted for the alleged rape of a 7-year-old girl in Lautoka early last month.

The girl was missing from her home from 1am to about 4am.

Anyone with information is requested to call Crime stoppers on 919 or their nearest police station.