Anambra Police Uncover Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue 11 Abducted Children
The Anambra State Police Command has successfully busted an interstate child abduction and trafficking syndicate operating in Uruagu, Nnewi North Local Government Area. The breakthrough came through coordinated efforts between the Anambra and Adamawa State Police Commands, resulting in the rescue of eleven children and the arrest of a prime suspect.
According to the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the children six girls and five boys were aged between three and six. They were reportedly abducted from Adamawa State and brought to Anambra for illegal sale under the guise of adoption.
The raid, which took place on July 15, followed intensive intelligence work. The key suspect, identified as Uche Okoye, a 43-year-old woman, was arrested at the hideout where the children were being kept. Preliminary investigations revealed that the children were being sold to unsuspecting individuals at prices ranging from ₦800,000 to ₦1.5 million, depending on their gender.
The rescued children have since been handed over to a delegation from the Adamawa State Police Command led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Shuaibu Wara. Efforts are currently underway to trace their families and ensure their safe return home.
The Anambra Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Uche Orutugu, commended the swift and professional conduct of the officers involved and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling child trafficking networks in the state. He also urged members of the public to be cautious and to follow lawful procedures when seeking child adoption, warning against dealing with unverified sources.
This latest operation marks a significant step in the fight against child trafficking in Nigeria, particularly in states like Anambra where similar syndicates have previously been uncovered. The police have pledged to continue investigations to identify and apprehend other members of the trafficking ring and ensure they are brought to justice.
