In a major breakthrough against child trafficking, the Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with operatives from the Adamawa State Police Command, has busted an interstate child‑stealing and abduction syndicate, arresting one suspect and rescuing eleven children in Nnewi.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed in a statement on Friday, July 25, 2025, that operatives from the Anambra State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Awka, on July 15, complemented the efforts of officers from Adamawa to crack the syndicate.
The operation, described as intelligence‑driven, led to the arrest of Uche Okoye, a 43‑year‑old woman, in Uruagu, Nnewi, where police also rescued eleven children—five boys and six girls—aged between three and six years.
According to preliminary investigations, the children had been abducted from Adamawa and sold to unsuspecting members of the public under the guise of adoption. SP Ikenga revealed:
“The children were illegally given to unsuspecting members of the public seeking adoption for ₦1.5 million for boys and ₦800,000 for girls respectively.”
The rescued children have since been handed over to ACP Shuaibu Wara, the Team Leader from the Adamawa Police Command, for safe return and possible reunion with their families.
Meanwhile, police say they are acting on intelligence provided by the suspect to track down and prosecute other members of the trafficking network.
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Uche Orutugu, fwc MNIPS PhD, commended the synergy between both commands, praising the professionalism and proactive approach that led to the success.
“The Command will continue to support all efforts aimed at dismantling child trafficking networks across the country,” CP Orutugu said.
He also issued a stern advisory to couples and individuals seeking to adopt children:
“Endeavour to do the necessary checks and follow legal procedures. Avoid involvement in criminal acts under the guise of adoption.”
Authorities have vowed to sustain the crackdown until all members of the syndicate are brought to justice.
