Monday, June 30, 2025 -The Imo State Police Command has uncovered a massive child trafficking scheme, arrested a suspect, Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, and rescued 12 stolen children.
Spokesperson of the command, DSP Okoye Henry, who disclosed
this in a statement on Sunday, June 29, 2025 said the children were intercepted
along the Owerri-Aba Express Road following an intelligence-led stop-and-search
operation.
According to the PPRO, the suspect confessed to trafficking
children from Ngor-Okpala LGA to Aba, where they were coerced into street
begging.
"The Imo State Police Command, through an
intelligence-led stop-and-search operation, has arrested one Ann Ngozi Enyenwa,
42 years old, of Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA, and rescued twelve
suspected stolen children on 20th June 2025 along the Owerri-Aba Express
Road," the statement read.
"This arrest led to the uncovering of a disturbing child
trafficking network that exploited minors for street begging in Aba, Abia
State.
"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.
"During interrogation, the suspect confessed to
trafficking children from Ngor-Okpala LGA to Aba, where they were coerced into
street begging.
"She further disclosed that proceeds from their
activities were allegedly sent to Shalom Motherless Babies Home in Okenyi, Eche
LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed.
"As a result of the operation, twelve children between
the ages of 5 and 13 were rescued. Their alleged names are as follows: 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 from various communities in Ngor-Okpala
LGA.
"Presently, the children are currently in safe custody,
and efforts are ongoing in collaboration with relevant agencies to identify and
reunite them with their biological families.
"Meanwhile, the Command urges members of the public who recognize any of the rescued children or have helpful information about their identities or families to come forward and assist the Police.
"Reports can be made at the X-Squad Unit or via the following numbers: 0803 477 3600 or 0816 008 7155.
"The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki DANJUMA, condemns
all forms of child trafficking and reiterates his unwavering commitment to
safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child in the State.
“Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be
provided in due course.”
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