The Anambra State Police Command successfully apprehended a suspect involved in the trafficking of teenagers, with victims aged between 13 and 16. This arrest has brought relief to families affected by the alarming rise in child trafficking cases in the state.
During a press briefing in Awka, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the suspect had trafficked several teenagers to neighboring countries, including Ghana. Some of the trafficked victims have already been safely repatriated to Nigeria, while efforts are ongoing to track down other missing teenagers and members of the trafficking ring.
Ikenga explained that the arrest was made following a surge in reports of missing children across Anambra State, prompting the police to intensify their investigations. The case is part of a broader effort to curb child trafficking in the region.
“The suspect is currently in custody, assisting the police with valuable information that may lead to the rescue of additional victims and the capture of other members of the criminal network,” Ikenga stated.
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Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Itam has ordered all law enforcement officers in the state to prioritize the fight against child trafficking and ensure that all those involved face justice. The Commissioner also reassured the public that the police will leave no stone unturned in rescuing every victim.
This incident adds to the increasing concerns over child trafficking in Nigeria, particularly in regions like Anambra, where the crime has become more prevalent in recent years.
Efforts to combat child trafficking have gained momentum as security forces collaborate with local communities to address the root causes of this disturbing trend. The rescue of these teenagers marks a significant step forward in the fight against human trafficking in Nigeria.
