The Imo State Police Command has arrested a female child trafficker of 42 years of age identified as Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, of Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA, and rescued 12 suspected stolen children on Friday, June 20, 2025 along the Owerri-Aba Express Road. The rescued children are between ages five and 13.
The rescued children are: Chinyere Nnaralaeze (10), Favour Madufor (13), Ugochi Pius (13), Ifeanyi Pius (9), Favour Timothy (10), Solomon Ihechi Chinuike (7), Chinaza Madufor (10), Nneoma Timothy (9), Promise Maduenyenwa (5), Gospel Chibuike (9), Chinedu Maduenyiwa (11), and Chinonso Paul (10)—all from various communities in Ngor-Okpala LGA.
According to a press statement signed by the command Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, the arrest led to the uncovering of a disturbing child trafficking network that exploited minors for street begging in Aba, Abia State.
The statement reads, “Upon her arrest, the suspect was found with several children whose appearance and condition immediately aroused suspicion. Consequently, the case was referred to the IGP X-Squad Unit for discreet investigation.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to trafficking children from Ngor-Okpala LGA to Aba, where they were coerced into street begging. She further disclosed that proceeds from their activities were allegedly sent to Shalom Motherless Babies Home in Okenyi, Eche LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed.”
The police revealed that presently, the children are in safe custody, and efforts are ongoing in collaboration with relevant agencies to identify and reunite them with their biological families.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki DANJUMA, condemns all forms of child trafficking and reiterates his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child in the State. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided in due course”, the statement concluded.
