The Ebonyi State Police Command has successfully dismantled a child abduction syndicate, resulting in the rescue of six abducted children. This accomplishment was detailed in a statement released by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, through the command’s official communication channel on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the incident was brought to light on January 21, 2024, when Nkwuda Francis reported to the authorities that two young children had been abducted from his residence in Nwezenyi Igbeagu, Izzi LGA, Ebonyi State. The alleged perpetrator, initially identified as Mercy Francis, purportedly a youth corps member, had rented a room in the same compound before taking the children, aged three and seven. However, further investigation revealed the suspect’s true identity as Ngozi Blessing Abia.
Through meticulous efforts by officers from the gender unit of the command, the suspect was traced to Oba, Anambra State, where the abducted children were rescued and reunited with their family.
In a related development, Lovina Iwuorah and Ndifereke Wisdom Clement, mothers whose children had also been abducted in Ohaozara LGA of Ebonyi State, identified the same suspect as involved in the disappearance of their three children, aged between one and three years old. Subsequent investigations led the authorities to Benin City, where the children were discovered in an orphanage. The proprietor of the orphanage has been apprehended and is cooperating with the police.
Furthermore, Chinasa Uwezoke from Lagos came forward upon hearing of the arrest and identified the suspect as someone who had gained her trust. The suspect had taken her three children to the market and absconded with her three-year-old son. Fortunately, the boy was later located and reunited with his family after being sold by the suspect.
The suspect’s method of operation involved renting accommodation, building rapport with unsuspecting neighbors, gaining their trust, and then abducting their children for financial gain.
In light of these events, the command advises property owners and caretakers to conduct thorough background checks on potential tenants. Additionally, parents are urged to educate their children about safety and how to interact with strangers.
