Abia State Police have rescued 18 children and infants from a suspected child trafficking ring in Aba.
Ten suspects were arrested during coordinated raids, and efforts are ongoing to reunite the victims with their families.
The Abia State Police Command has rescued eight infants and ten stolen children during a coordinated operation that dismantled a suspected child trafficking syndicate operating in Aba and surrounding areas.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen C. Chinaka, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, October 10, 2025. According to her, the operation led to the arrest of ten suspects believed to be members of the trafficking network.
The police said the operation began after a report was filed at the Ohuru Isimiri Divisional Headquarters by a woman from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. The complainant alleged that she had travelled to Aba with her two children after being deceived by a man who promised marriage. Upon arrival, the suspect reportedly sent her to get food and fled with her children before she returned.
Following actionable intelligence, officers raided a residence where several children were being held. Five suspects identified as Best Ndubusi, Charles Enyinnaya, Eunice Ezekiel, Nnena Kalu, and Gideon Esther were arrested, and one infant alongside seven children was rescued.
Further investigation led police operatives to another location along the Aba/Owerri Road, where four additional suspects Obiegbunam Von, Ezeoma Rejoice, Ngozi Owoh, and Favour Ernest were apprehended. Seven infants and three children were rescued from the premises.
On Friday, October 10, 2025, officers arrested another suspect, Brittney Oyemuwa Zion, leading to the rescue of one more child.
The suspects are currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), while efforts are ongoing to locate the parents or guardians of the rescued children.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eradicating child trafficking and ensuring the safety of all residents. He urged parents and guardians to be vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
He also appealed to members of the public searching for missing children to contact the Gender Section of the SCID or call 08033173846 for assistance.
