The Imo State Police Command has successfully dismantled a child trafficking ring and rescued 12 children who were allegedly stolen and forced into street begging. The breakthrough came following an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation conducted along the Owerri-Aba Express Road.
According to a statement released by the Command's spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, officers arrested 42-year-old Ann Ngozi Enyenwa from Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area. The suspect was apprehended with several children whose appearance raised immediate concerns among the officers.
Trafficking Network Exposed
"Upon her arrest, the suspect was found with several children whose appearance and condition immediately aroused suspicion. Consequently, the case was referred to the IGP X-Squad Unit for discreet investigation," DSP Okoye stated.
During interrogation, Enyenwa reportedly confessed to trafficking children from Ngor-Okpala LGA to Aba, Abia State, where they were coerced into begging on the streets. The suspect further revealed that proceeds from the children's begging activities were allegedly sent to Shalom Motherless Babies Home in Okenyi, Eche LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed.
Rescued Children
The police operation led to the rescue of 12 children between the ages of 5 and 13 years. The rescued children have been identified as Chinyere Nnaralaeze (10), Favour Madufor (13), Ugochi Pius (13), Ifeanyi Pius (9), Favour Timothy (10), Solomon Ihechi Chinuike (7), Chinaza Madufor (10), Nneoma Timothy (9), Promise Maduenyenwa (5), Gospel Chibuike (9), Chinedu Maduenyiwa (11), and Chinonso Paul (10).
All the children reportedly hail from different communities within Ngor-Okpala LGA and are currently in safe custody. The police are working with relevant agencies to identify and reunite them with their biological families.
Public Assistance Sought
The Imo State Police Command has urged members of the public who may recognize any of the rescued children or have information about their identities or families to come forward. Concerned individuals can contact the X-Squad Unit or call 08034773600 and 08160087155.
Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma has strongly condemned all forms of child trafficking and reaffirmed the command's commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child in the state.
The police spokesperson confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with further updates to be provided as the case develops.
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