Merlo police detain man for kidnapping and assaulting child

Police in Merlo, Argentina, have detained 34-year-old Carlos Jonathan Rios following the kidnapping and attempted sexual assault of an eight-year-old girl. The incident occurred in the Libertad locality on a Friday night.

According to reports, Rios approached the child's home, claiming to be a friend of her mother, and offered her fruit to gain her trust. He then carried the girl to a nearby vacant lot. Once there, the child reported that the man exposed his genitals to her. The girl managed to break free and run away, eventually finding refuge with a neighbor who alerted authorities.

Security cameras in the area were instrumental in identifying the suspect. Investigators believe the abduction was intended to facilitate a sexual attack. Rios, who resided in a nearby unit within the same housing complex, is currently in custody.