Police bust child-trafficking syndicate in Ebonyi, rescue three children

Police in Ebonyi State have dismantled an alleged child-trafficking syndicate and rescued three abducted children following investigations spanning several states.

Channels Television reported that multiple suspects were arrested after a woman reported in May that her five-month-old baby and 11-year-old child had been taken.

“The complainant reported that individuals deceiving her under the pretext of marriage lured her to Awgu, Enugu State, to meet her purported in-laws,” police spokesperson SP Joshua Ukandu said.

Police said investigations uncovered similar schemes involving fake job offers and adoption arrangements. Operatives subsequently arrested suspects in Ebonyi, Imo and Rivers states.

Authorities also arrested two social welfare officers accused of facilitating fraudulent documentation for illegal fostering and child sales.

“The Command will remain relentless in pursuing every individual connected to these heinous acts,” Commissioner of Police Hope Urunwa Okafor said.

Police said efforts are continuing to locate the missing 11-year-old child and urged prospective adopters to use authorised government channels.