The Enugu State Police Command has rescued six trafficked children and arrested ten suspects linked to a local and international child trafficking syndicate.
The operations were carried out in different locations across the state between June 30 and July 16, 2025.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the successful rescue missions were the result of coordinated efforts by the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad in collaboration with local security outfits such as the Neighbourhood Watch.
One of the key breakthroughs occurred on July 15 in Ezeagu Local Government Area, where two suspected traffickers—64-year-old Chiaha Josephine and 67-year-old Ozomma Christopher Ubanagum—were apprehended.
“Two children were rescued during the operation—Loveth Mfonobong, a 16-year-old girl, and Benjamin Alex Okon, a 12-year-old boy,” the statement read. “During interrogation, Josephine admitted to purchasing Loveth in 2021 for ₦900,000 and Benjamin in 2024 for ₦1.4 million.”
Other rescued victims included a one-year-and-seven-month-old male child and a 14-year-old girl who had been trafficked across borders to Ghana.
The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Giwa, praised the operatives for their swift and professional actions, while emphasizing the importance of community vigilance.
“We commend the dedication and professionalism of our officers,” Giwa said. “We urge parents and guardians to be alert and report any suspicious movements around their children. The public must also resist participating in any form of human trafficking, regardless of the circumstances.”
He added that the suspects currently in custody would be charged to court upon conclusion of ongoing investigations. He also confirmed that efforts were underway to track down other members of the syndicate still at large.
Reaffirming the command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children, CP Giwa called on residents to continue providing credible and timely information to assist law enforcement efforts.
“The safety of every child remains our priority, and we will not relent in dismantling trafficking networks in the state,” he assured.
