The Abia State Police Command has rescued 18 children, including the two kids of a young mother from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, in a coordinated operation that uncovered a major child trafficking network operating within the South-East.
According to a statement released by DSP Maureen Chinaka, spokesperson of the Command, ten suspects have been arrested in connection with child theft and conspiracy, while the rescued victims—eight infants and ten stolen children—are receiving care and protection.
The incident reportedly began on September 27, 2025, when a woman from Ebonyi State lodged a complaint at the Ohuru Isimiri Police Division in Abia. She alleged that a man who promised marriage lured her to Aba with her two children, only to abscond with them moments after sending her out to get food.
Following credible intelligence, police operatives raided a residence on October 8, arresting Mrs. Best Ndubusi, Charles Enyinnaya, Eunice Ezekiel, Nnena Kalu, and Gideon Esther, and rescuing eight children, including one infant.
A second operation the next day along Aba–Owerri Road led to the arrest of Obiegbunam Von, Ezeoma Rejoice, Ngozi Owoh, and Favour Ernest, while ten more children, mostly infants, were recovered. Another suspect, Brittney Oyemuwa Zion, was apprehended on October 10, bringing the total to 18 rescued children and ten suspects in custody.
The Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, commended the officers for their swift and coordinated response, assuring that investigations are ongoing at the State CID, Umuahia.
He also urged parents, particularly in neighboring states like Ebonyi, to remain vigilant and promptly report any case of missing children to the police.
This development has drawn attention to the growing concerns around child trafficking in the South-East, with many calling for stronger inter-state collaboration between security agencies to protect vulnerable families.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
