The Nigerian Police Force has successfully apprehended a 36-year-old woman, identified as Adaeze Chidiebere, in connection with the illegal trafficking of children in Imo State. This arrest follows a strategic operation carried out by the police in response to a tip-off about the suspect’s involvement in a child trafficking ring operating in the region.
The operation, which took place on November 24, 2024, led to the rescue of three children—two boys and one girl—who were believed to have been lured from their families with promises of a better life, only to be trafficked for exploitation. The children, who were aged between 4 and 7 years, were discovered in a safe house where they had been kept before being moved to unknown destinations.
The suspect, who was reportedly involved in the illegal trade of children for the purposes of labor and illicit adoption, was arrested in her residence in Owerri, the state capital. Upon arrest, the police recovered several items that further implicated the suspect in organized child trafficking activities, including fraudulent documents and contact details for other individuals connected to the operation.
A spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, DSP Chika Oko, confirmed the arrest, stating, "This is a significant breakthrough in our efforts to combat child trafficking in the region. The police are committed to ensuring that those who exploit vulnerable children are brought to justice, and we are working tirelessly to dismantle these dangerous networks."
The police have launched an investigation to track down other individuals who may be involved in the trafficking ring. The three rescued children have been safely returned to local authorities and are receiving medical attention and psychological support as part of their recovery process.