Six Suspects Arrested as Police Rescue Three-Year-Old Trafficked from Anambra to Lagos

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested six individuals, including a woman and her two brothers, in connection with the abduction and trafficking of a three-year-old boy from Umusiome, Nkpor Uno, in Idemili North Local Government Area. The child was reportedly trafficked to Lagos State.

Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga disclosed on Sunday in Awka that the boy has been safely rescued and reunited with his family in good health. He explained that the arrests followed a petition filed by the child’s family after the mother discovered that both her son and a female neighbour, whom she had entrusted him to, were missing from their residence.

“Following a petition received on September 4, operatives attached to the Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, launched an intensive investigation, which led to the arrest of the neighbour,” Ikenga said.

The neighbour’s confession reportedly revealed a broader trafficking network, leading to the arrest of her mother and two younger brothers, who were implicated in the child’s abduction. Investigations later extended to Enugu State, where two additional suspects were apprehended for facilitating the transfer of the child to Lagos.

“The operatives later proceeded to Lagos State, where another suspect was arrested, and the child was recovered safely,” Ikenga confirmed.

All six suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the officers for their efforts and reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities across the state. He warned criminal elements to stay away from Anambra, emphasizing that the police remain fully dedicated to protecting lives, property, and ensuring that offenders face justice.

This successful rescue highlights the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts in combating child trafficking and protecting vulnerable children. Authorities continue to urge residents to report suspicious activities promptly to prevent such incidents.