The Imo State Police Command has rescued 12 under-aged children suspected to have been trafficked from Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State to Aba in Abia State for street begging.
The operation, which took place along the Owerri-Aba Expressway on June 20, 2025, was carried out by operatives during a stop-and-search mission, according to a statement issued on Sunday evening by the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye.
Okoye disclosed that the officers arrested a 42-year-old woman, Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, from Umudim, Ohakelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA, in connection with the incident.
“The Imo State Police Command, through an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation, has arrested one Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, 42 years old, of Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA, and rescued twelve suspected stolen children on 20th June 2025 along the Owerri-Aba Express Road,” the statement read.
“This arrest led to the uncovering of a disturbing child trafficking network that exploited minors for street begging in Aba, Abia State.
“Upon her arrest, the suspect was found with several children whose appearance and condition immediately aroused suspicion. Consequently, the case was referred to the IGP X-Squad Unit for discreet investigation.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to trafficking children from Ngor-Okpala LGA to Aba, where they were coerced into street begging. She further disclosed that proceeds from their activities were allegedly sent to Shalom Motherless Babies Home in Okenyi, Eche LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed,” Okoye added.
The rescued children were identified as Chinyere Nnaralaeze, 10; Favour Madufor, 13; Ugochi Pius, 13; Ifeanyi Pius, 9; and Favour Timothy, 10. Others include Solomon Ihechi Chinuike, 7; Chinaza Madufor, 10; Nneoma Timothy, 9; Promise Maduenyenwa, 5; Gospel Chibuike, 9; Chinedu Maduenyiwa, 11; and Chinonso Paul, 10. All are from various communities in Ngor-Okpala LGA.
Okoye noted that the children are currently in the custody of the command and undergoing the process of identification, in collaboration with relevant agencies, to facilitate their reunion with parents and guardians.
He urged members of the public who may know the rescued children or their families to contact the X-Squad via 0803 477 3600 or 0816 008 7155.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, condemned the act and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of children in the state.
He assured the public that investigations were ongoing, with the promise that the outcome would be made known in due course.
