Imo Police Arrest 78 Suspects, Rescue Victims of Abduction, Child Trafficking

The Imo State Police Command says it has recorded major breakthroughs in its fight against violent crime and trafficking, arresting 78 suspects and rescuing several victims of abduction and child trafficking within the last two months.

According to a statement from the Command, the suspects were rounded up in various coordinated operations targeting kidnapping gangs, armed robbers, and child trafficking syndicates operating across the state. The police also confirmed that rescued victims, including children, have since been reunited with their families or placed in protective custody pending further investigations.

The Command explained that the arrests followed sustained surveillance and intelligence-led raids carried out in different local government areas.

Items recovered during the operations included arms, ammunition, vehicles, and documents believed to have been used in criminal activities.

While addressing journalists, the State Commissioner of Police commended the efforts of tactical teams and community collaborations that made the operations possible. He reassured residents of Imo that the police would continue to maintain pressure on criminal groups to ensure peace and safety.

The development comes against the backdrop of recent high-profile cases of child trafficking and abductions in Imo, where police rescued at least 12 trafficked minors earlier this year and dismantled a suspected baby-selling ring.

Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the rising cases of child theft in the South-East, urging tighter monitoring and stiffer punishments for offenders.

The latest arrests bring renewed attention to the challenges of insecurity in the region but also highlight the gains made by security agencies in curbing the menace.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and the arrested suspects will be charged in court once due processes are completed.