Anambra Agency Rescues Two Stolen Children Sold for N3.5 Million, Arrests Suspected Trafficker
The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency has achieved a significant breakthrough in combating child trafficking with the arrest of a suspected trafficker and the rescue of two stolen children. The operation, which unfolded over the weekend, highlights the agency's ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable residents across the state.
Arrest and Rescue Operation Details
On Sunday, agency operatives apprehended 42-year-old Sunday Nomen from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, in Nkpor within the Idemili Local Government Area of Anambra. The arrest was part of a targeted operation based on credible intelligence, leading to the rescue of two children, aged three and eight years, who had been victims of trafficking.
During a parade at the SASA headquarters in Onitsha on Monday, agency spokesperson Karen James provided detailed insights into the case. She revealed that Nomen belongs to an inter-state child trafficking ring that specializes in selling children as young as six months to interested buyers.
Intelligence-Led Operation and Confession
James explained that the operation was intelligence-driven, with an undercover operative posing as a buyer to negotiate for one of the children in Nomen's custody. This strategic move led to his arrest during the negotiations. Upon interrogation, Nomen confessed to purchasing the two children for a total of N3.5 million.
He further disclosed that he had brought the children to Onitsha to meet an accomplice identified as Mrs. Uju, who allegedly introduced him into the illicit trade. Preliminary findings indicated that the children were temporarily lodged in a hotel in Nkpor while Nomen awaited contact with his accomplices.
Agency's Commitment and Next Steps
Karen James emphasized that this operation demonstrates SASA's operational effectiveness in combating crime and safeguarding vulnerable populations in Anambra State. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, operatives tracked and arrested the suspect, ensuring the timely rescue of the victims.
The suspect is set to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka, where he will remain in custody as investigations continue. Authorities are working to uncover other members of the trafficking syndicate to dismantle the network fully.
This case underscores the persistent challenges of child trafficking in the region and the critical role of specialized agencies like SASA in addressing such crimes. The rescue of the two children marks a positive outcome in the fight against human trafficking, with ongoing efforts to ensure justice and prevent future incidents.
