The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 51-year-old suspected child trafficker, Nnamdi Lazarus, and rescued six abducted children. The operation, carried out by the Violent Crime Response Unit in Aba North, was based on credible intelligence, according to a statement released on Thursday.
Arrest and Rescue Details
Police spokesperson DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka confirmed the arrest in a statement on Thursday. The suspect, originally from Mbano in Imo State but residing in Uratta Aba, Abia State, was found harbouring the children. The rescued children include Nnenna Ogbuogu (5) and Nwanne Ogbuogu (3) from Abriba; Amanda Iheke Emmanuella (3), Destiny Iheke Emmanuel (7), and Anointing Iheke Emmanuel (5) from Item; and Ihechi Obasi (7) also from Item.
All six children have been safely reunited with their families. The statement emphasized that investigation is ongoing to apprehend other members of the child trafficking syndicate.
Police Commitment and Public Appeal
"Acting on credible and actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, Aba North, apprehended one Nnamdis Lazarus, a 51-year-old male from Mbano in Imo State, currently residing in Uratta Aba, Abia State," the statement read. It added, "All six rescued children have been safely reunited with their families."
The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property through intelligence-led policing. Residents are encouraged to provide timely information via emergency hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.
Ongoing Investigation
The suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations. The command assured that there will be no hiding place for criminal elements in the state.
