By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled two major human trafficking syndicates operating in Anambra and Enugu states, rescuing multiple victims—including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals—and arresting 11 suspects in a nationwide crackdown on organized crime.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed in a statement on Monday that operatives of the Zone-13 Police Command, acting on credible intelligence, conducted a targeted operation against a well-established child trafficking and baby factory network.
The raid led to the arrest of eight suspects, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56). During interrogation, the suspects confessed to involvement in child theft, abduction, illegal adoption, and operating unlicensed medical facilities used as baby factories.
Their operations reportedly spanned across communities in Enugu and Anambra, exploiting vulnerable women and children for profit.
Victims rescued during the sting included a seven-month-old infant, a four-year-old child, and two heavily pregnant women—all held captive in a remote village. The pregnant women, both from Ebonyi State, were allegedly lured and detained to give birth so their babies could be sold. All rescued individuals are now in safe custody receiving appropriate care, while efforts are ongoing to arrest fleeing accomplices.
In a separate operation, the Ondo State Police Command rescued a trafficked Ghanaian national, David Angerinya, following a petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja. The police arrested three suspects—Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix—linked to an international trafficking ring targeting West Africans with false promises of employment and visas to countries like Canada.
Further investigation uncovered 39 more Ghanaian victims, many without valid documents or with expired passports, found in distressing conditions. They are currently receiving medical treatment.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives’ efforts, reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s zero tolerance for human trafficking, child exploitation, and transnational crimes.
The public is urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to nearby police stations as the Force continues its mission to protect the vulnerable and bring traffickers to justice.
