Police officer | File photo
The Imo state police command says its operatives have arrested four suspected child traffickers and rescued a 20-month-old girl from them.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Henry Okoye, police spokesperson in Imo, said the arrest was achieved after an “intensive investigation” into a case reported by one Ekwennaya on April 8.
According to the police spokesperson, the suspects lured Ekwennaya to Umuahia, Abia state, with false promises of financial aid from a fake charity.
He added that the X-squad Unit’s efforts led to the arrest of two suspects – Maria Nwaeze (63) of Ariam Oboro and Rejoice Odimba (29) of Ahai Eke – from Aba, Abia state, on May 23.
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He said the suspects have provided crucial insights into the syndicate’s operations.
“Subsequent operations on May 27, 2025, at around 5:00 PM, resulted in the rescue of the abducted child and the arrest of another suspect, Chioma Theresa (42) of Aboh Mbaise, Imo state,” the statement reads.
“Chioma confessed to purchasing the child for N1,500,000 from Gabriel Amarachi (41) of Ngwa, Aba south, Abia state, who had posed as a social welfare officer.
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“Investigations revealed that the scheme was masterminded by a couple, Precious and her husband, who are currently at large.”
Okoye said the suspects orchestrated the deceitful invitation that led Ekwennaya to Aba, exploiting her vulnerability under the guise of offering assistance.
He added that the rescued infant had been medically examined and safely reunited with her mother on May 28, after due documentation.
Okoye said Aboki Danjuma, the commissioner of police, reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons, especially children, and warned that there is no hiding place for criminals in Imo state.
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He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the command’s emergency lines.
