Detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Imo State Police Command Owerri have dismantled a notorious child trafficking syndicate involved in the abduction of children from unsuspecting parents.
Spokesman for the State Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, said that detectives also rescues three children, who were abducted on July 4, 2024, at Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA
Those arrested included Ifeoma Anyanwu, 42, from Oloko in Ikwuano LGA of Abia State; Chibuzor Lucky, 42, from Umuezeala Umuerim, Ubakala, Umuahia of Abia State; Charity Kalu, 24, from Okono, Ohiafia LGA, also in Abia State, and 56-year-old Isidore Ozioma, who hails from Umuhu Onicha in Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA of Imo State.
According to the police spokesman, 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 N1million.
He revealed that prompt action from the police led to the rescue of the children and the apprehension of the suspects.
He said that the suspects are currently undergoing a thorough investigation at the State CID as efforts are on to locate some other missing children.
Okoye said that the rescued children have been safely reunited with their families.
The CP, Aboki Danjuma, in response to the alarming incidents, has issued a stern warning to parents, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
He urged families to be cautious of strangers and to keep close watch over their children at all times