Police dismantle child trafficking syndicate, rescue three children in Imo

Detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri, on Monday, dismantled a notorious child trafficking syndicate involved in the abduction of children from unsuspecting parents.

In a statement issued by the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, he said, “The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were abducted on 4 July 2024 in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, and Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Areas.”

“The arrested suspects include Ifeoma Anyanwu, 41, from Oloko, Ikwuano LGA, Abia State; Chibuzor Lucky, 42, from Umuezeala Umuerim, Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State; Charity Kalu, 24, from Okono, Ohafia LGA, Abia State; and Isidore Ozioma, 56, from Umuhu Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Imo State.”

“Investigations revealed that the suspects lured the children into their tricycle while they were playing outside and subsequently transported them to a hidden location in Aba, where they were sold for 1,000,000 naira. Prompt police action led to the rescue of the children and the apprehension of the suspects.”

The suspects are currently undergoing a thorough investigation at the State CID, and efforts are ongoing to locate additional missing children. The rescued children have been safely reunited with their families.

According to the statement, the police commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, issued a stern warning to parents, stressing the need for vigilance. He urged families to be cautious of strangers and to supervise their children closely at all times.

PUNCH Online reports that child trafficking syndicates are organised criminal networks that engage in the illegal trade and exploitation of children for various purposes, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, child soldiering, and illegal adoptions.

These syndicates operate both locally and internationally, often targeting vulnerable children from impoverished or conflict-affected areas. Traffickers use coercion, abduction, and deception to recruit or kidnap children, who are then smuggled across borders or within countries for sale or exploitation.