Police Smash Child Trafficking Syndicate in Coordinated Operation
The Anambra State Police Command has successfully rescued a three-year-old boy who was stolen from his mother and dismantled a criminal network, arresting six individuals suspected of involvement in child stealing and trafficking. The syndicate was reportedly operating across multiple states, including Anambra, Enugu, and Lagos.
The Distressing Abduction and Swift Police Action
According to a detailed statement from the Command's spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, the incident began on September 4. The crisis unfolded when the victim's mother left her young son in the care of a man identified as Samuel Ibe at Umusiome, Nkpor Uno, while she briefly visited her shop. Upon her return, she was met with a terrifying reality: both her child and Samuel Ibe had vanished without a trace.
Following a formal petition from the distressed mother, operatives from the Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka immediately launched a comprehensive investigation. Their swift and dedicated efforts quickly led to the arrest of the prime suspect, Samuel Ibe.
Unraveling the Network: Arrests Across Three States
During interrogation, Samuel Ibe provided a confessional statement that became a critical breakthrough for the police. This confession directly led to the apprehension of two more suspects: his mother, Agatha Ejeweh, 35, and his younger brother, Ejeweh Chigozie Chidera, 15.
The investigation did not stop there. Police operatives extended their manhunt to Enugu State, where they arrested Angela Eze, 30. It was revealed that she collaborated with another individual, Juliet Onah, to facilitate the movement of the stolen child out of the region.
Acting on credible intelligence gathered during the probe, the police team then proceeded to Lagos State. There, their operation culminated in a major success: the arrest of another suspect, China Cosmas, and the successful rescue of the stolen three-year-old boy. The police have confirmed that the child has been safely reunited with his family and is in good health.
Justice Ahead and a Stern Warning to Criminals
All six suspects linked to this crime are currently in police custody. Spokesperson Ikenga confirmed that they will be formally charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
Reiterating the Command's unwavering dedication, Ikenga emphasized their commitment to protecting the lives and property of all citizens. He issued a stern warning to criminal elements, stating that Anambra State will not be a safe haven for any form of criminal enterprise.
