Police dismantle child trafficking syndicate and 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 by police spokesperson Henry Okoye, he said: “The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were kidnapped on July 4, 2024 in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha and Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Areas.”

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

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

The suspects are currently undergoing a thorough investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department, and efforts are underway to locate additional missing children. The rescued children have been safely reunited with their families.

According to the statement, Police Commissioner Aboki Danjuma has issued a stern warning to parents, stressing the need for vigilance. He urged families to be cautious around strangers and keep a close eye on their children at all times.

PUNCH Online reports that child trafficking syndicates are organized criminal networks that engage in the illegal trafficking and exploitation of children for a variety of purposes, including forced labor, sexual exploitation, child soldiers and illegal adoptions.

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