Police Arrest Suspects for Human Trafficking, Rescue Victims in Anambra, Enugu, Edo
The Nigeria Police Force has busted two major human trafficking syndicates in separate sting operations, leading to the arrest of 11 suspects and the rescue of several victims, including minors, pregnant women, and foreign nationals.
In the first operation, operatives of the Zone-13 Police Command, acting on credible intelligence, raided multiple locations across Enugu and Anambra States, unearthing a deeply entrenched child trafficking and baby factory network. The operation led to the arrest of eight suspects, among them Uzoamaka Ani, 27; Joy Madu, 52; and Victoria Onodu Akasike, 56.
According to police investigations, the suspects were involved in child theft, abduction, illegal adoption, and the operation of unauthorized medical facilities masquerading as baby factories. During the sting, the police rescued a seven-month-old infant, a four-year-old child, and two heavily pregnant women, all of whom were being held captive in a remote village.
The pregnant victims, both from Ebonyi State, were reportedly lured under false pretences and held with the intention of selling their newborns. Police confirmed that the victims were rescued unharmed and are now receiving medical care and psychosocial support in protective custody.
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Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Interpol Liaison Office at Force Headquarters, Abuja, launched a parallel operation following a petition on suspected cross-border trafficking. The effort resulted in the rescue of a Ghanaian national, David Angerinya, who was allegedly trafficked into Nigeria under false promises of employment and international travel.
Three suspects—Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix—were arrested in connection with the case. Preliminary investigations revealed that the trio were part of an international trafficking ring deceiving West African nationals with fake offers of travel visas to countries like Canada.
In the course of the operation, an additional 39 Ghanaian victims were identified, many of whom were in possession of expired passports or lacked any travel documents at all. Authorities say the victims were kept in appalling conditions and are currently receiving medical treatment and support.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, lauded the operatives for their swift and professional execution of both operations. He reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to combating all forms of human trafficking, child exploitation, and transnational organized crime.
“The Nigeria Police will continue to pursue and dismantle trafficking networks, protect the vulnerable, and bring all perpetrators to justice,” the IGP stated, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
The rescued victims are in safe custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the syndicates.
By PRNigeria
