The Imo state Police command, through an intelligence-led stop-and-search operation, has arrested one Ann Ngozi Enyenwa, 42, of Umudim Ohekelem in Ngor-Okpala LGA of Imo state and rescued 12 stolen children on June 20, 2025 on the Owerri-Aba express road.
The arrest led to the uncovering of a disturbing child trafficking network that exploited minors for street begging in Aba, Abia state.
According to the command spokesman DSP Henry Okoye, “Upon her arrest, the suspect was found with several children whose appearances and conditions 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 in Imo State to Aba in Abia State, 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, Etche LGA, Rivers State, where she claimed to be employed.
“As a result of the operation, twelve children between the ages of 5 and 13 were rescued. Their alleged names are as follows: Chinyere Nnaralaeze (10), Favour Madufor (13), Ugochi Pius (13), Ifeanyi Pius (9), Favour Timothy (10), Solomon Ihechi Chinuike (7), Chinaza Madufor (10), Nneoma Timothy (9), Promise Maduenyenwa (5), Gospel Chibuike (9), Chinedu Maduenyiwa (11), and Chinonso Paul (10)—all from various communities in Ngor-Okpala LGA.”
DSP Okoye further said presently, the children were currently in safe custody, and efforts were ongoing in collaboration with relevant agencies to identify and reunite them with their biological families.
Meanwhile, the command has urged members of the public who recognise any of the rescued children or have helpful information about their identities or families to come forward and assist the police.