By Our Reporter
The Imo State Police Command has uncovered a major child trafficking operation following the arrest of a 42-year-old woman, Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, from Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area. The breakthrough came during a routine intelligence-led stop-and-search operation conducted on June 20 along the Owerri-Aba Expressway.
The suspect was found transporting twelve children, aged between 5 and 13, under suspicious conditions. Preliminary investigations revealed that the children had allegedly been trafficked from their communities in Ngor-Okpala and taken to Aba, Abia State, where they were forced into street begging.
The case was transferred to the IGP X-Squad Unit for discreet investigation. During interrogation, Enyenwa reportedly confessed to being part of a child trafficking network, disclosing that the money obtained from the children’s begging activities was allegedly remitted to Shalom Motherless Babies Home located in Okenyi, Eche LGA, Rivers State. She also claimed to be an employee of the home.
The names of the rescued children include: Chinyere Nnaralaeze (10), Favour Madufor (13), Ugochi Pius (13), Ifeanyi Pius (9), Favour Timothy (10), Solomon Ihechi Chinuike (7), Chinaza Madufor (10), Nneoma Timothy (9), Promise Maduenyenwa (5), Gospel Chibuike (9), Chinedu Maduenyiwa (11), and Chinonso Paul (10).
Authorities say the children are currently in safe custody, and the Command is working closely with relevant agencies to identify and reunite them with their families. The Police have urged anyone with useful information about the children’s identities or families to report to the X-Squad Unit or call 0803 477 3600 or 0816 008 7155.
Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, condemned the exploitation of minors, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to protecting children’s rights in the state. He assured that investigations are ongoing and more revelations are expected as the probe continues.