Imo State Police Command has burst a child trafficking ring. Through an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation, the command reported that they have arrested one Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, 42 years old, of Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA, and rescued 12 suspected stolen children aged between five and 12.
The operation took place June 20, 2025 along the Owerri-Aba Express Road. This arrest the police stated in a press release, led to the uncovering of a disturbing child trafficking network that exploited minors for street begging in Aba, Abia State.
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 Okehi, Etche LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed.
The names of the rescued children were given as follows: 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 the children were from various communities in Ngor-Okpala LGA.
