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Police operatives in Imo State have made a significant arrest, catching a suspected child trafficker, Onyinyechi Emeka, 40, during a stop-and-search operation in the Okigwe area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, revealed that Emeka, from Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia, was arrested on February 7 while traveling to Ebonyi with a five-year-old boy.
Thankfully, the young boy was rescued during the operation.
“Investigations revealed that the boy had been stolen from his mother’s shop at No. 22 Chimezie Street, Obohia, in Abia State.
“The suspect initially claimed the boy was her sister’s son, but inconsistencies in her statements raised suspicion,” Okoye said.
He said the child, displaying remarkable awareness, provided his father’s phone number. This led to his identification as a missing child reported in Abia.
Okoye said further investigations revealed that the suspect had received ₦30,000 from a syndicate to deliver the child to a buyer in Ebonyi.
He said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further enquires to apprehend other syndicate members.
He added that the suspect will face prosecution upon conclusion of investigations.
The police spokesman urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure their children’s safety.
