Abia Police Smash Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue 3 Children, Arrest 6 Suspects

The Abia State Police Command has rescued three children and apprehended six suspects allegedly involved in a child trafficking syndicate operating across state lines.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen C. Chinaka and made available to ABN TV, the suspects were identified as Onyinyechi Christopher (25), Ogechi Chidi (31), Bernadette Chukwu (67), Patience Nnaji (49), Abraham Ibiam (57), and Felix Ikechukwu (54).

According to the report, on October 30, 2025, a father lodged a complaint at the Owerrinta Police Division after discovering that his three children, two boys and a girl, were missing. He had gone to pick them up from school but was informed that they had already gone home. However, upon returning home, he realized the children were nowhere to be found.

Following swift action and intelligence gathering, police detectives arrested Onyinyechi Christopher and Ogechi Chidi, who confessed to luring the children with biscuits and promises of soft drinks while they were returning from school.

Further investigation revealed that the suspects handed the children over to Bernadette Chukwu (67), who transported them to Ebonyi State and sold them to Patience Nnaji (49), Felix Ikechukwu (54), and Abraham Ibiam (57).

The police successfully rescued the children and reunited them with their families, while all six suspects have been charged to court.

Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, commended the officers for their swift action and urged parents and school authorities to adopt stricter child safety measures. He emphasized that schools must verify those coming to pick up pupils and regularly educate children on basic security tips during morning assemblies.

He also encouraged the public to report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.

“See something, say something. Together, let’s keep Abia safe,” the statement concluded.