Six Arrested as Abia Police Rescue Three Children from Interstate Trafficking Syndicate

The Abia State Police Command has uncovered a cross-state child trafficking network, rescuing three abducted children and arresting six suspects linked to the operation.

According to a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Maureen C. Chinaka,the suspects include Onyinyechi Christopher (25), Ogechi Chidi (31), Bernadette Chukwu (67), Patience Nnaji (49), Abraham Ibiam (57), and Felix Ikechukwu (54).

The operation followed a report filed on October 30, 2025, by a distraught father at the Owerrinta Police Division. He had gone to collect his three children—two boys and a girl—from school, only to learn they had already been dismissed. Upon returning home, he discovered they were missing.

Prompt investigative efforts led to the arrest of Onyinyechi Christopher and Ogechi Chidi, who admitted to luring the children with biscuits and promises of soft drinks. Police findings revealed that the suspects had handed the victims over to 67-year-old Bernadette Chukwu, who transported them to Ebonyi State and sold them to Patience Nnaji, Felix Ikechukwu, and Abraham Ibiam.

The children were later rescued and safely reunited with their families, while the six suspects have been charged in court.

Commending the police team for their quick response, Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, urged schools and parents to adopt stronger child safety protocols. He advised school administrators to verify anyone picking up pupils and to regularly teach students basic personal security measures.

He further appealed to the public to report any suspicious individuals or activities via the Command’s hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, or 08079210006.

“See something, say something. Together, let’s keep Abia safe,” the statement read.