Imo child trafficking syndicate nabbed, three children rescued

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

A statement issued by the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, said, “The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were abducted on July 4, 2024, in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA.”

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

“Investigations revealed that the suspects lured the children into their tricycle while they were playing outside, subsequently transported them to a hidden location in Aba where they were sold for N1m. Prompt action from the police led to the rescue of the children and the apprehension of the suspects.”

He said the suspects were currently undergoing a thorough investigation at the state CID as efforts continued to locate additional missing children while the rescued children had been safely reunited with their families.

Okoye further disclosed that the Commissioner for Police, Aboki Danjuma, had issued a stern warning to parents, emphasising the need for vigilance, urging families to be cautious of strangers and to supervise their children closely at all times.