In a major breakthrough in the fight against human trafficking, the Imo State Police Command has arrested a notorious child trafficker, Mrs. Chinelo Onwuasonya, and rescued three children who were abducted from different locations in the state.
On Wednesday, 20th November, Mrs. Onwuasonya, 36, was apprehended at Amajeke Park in Owerri while in possession of the stolen children. The arrest was made by the Quick Intervention Team of the Imo State Police Command, who had been investigating the suspect for some time due to her notorious involvement in child trafficking.
At a press briefing held on Thursday, the State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, praised the operation, calling it a significant step in the battle against child trafficking. He noted that the operation had been carefully planned to ensure the children’s safety while dismantling the trafficker’s network.
“This arrest is a major success in our ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking,” Danjuma stated. “We are committed to ensuring that criminals like Mrs. Onwuasonya are brought to justice and that children are kept safe from harm.”
The three children rescued during the operation were identified as Chinecherem Eze, a 3-year-old; Delight Eze, aged 1; and Okeke Favour, also 3 years old. These children had been reported missing from various locations across Imo State, and their families had been desperately searching for them.
Upon their rescue, the children were promptly reunited with their families, bringing immense relief to the worried parents who had feared the worst. Danjuma expressed the police’s satisfaction in returning the children to their homes and reassured the public that the police would continue to do everything in their power to fight child trafficking.
“This achievement brings much-needed relief to the affected families,” he said. “It also serves as a reminder of our commitment to safeguarding children and fighting the illegal trade of human lives in our state.”
Danjuma also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to child abduction or trafficking. He stressed that community cooperation is essential in preventing future cases of child theft and ensuring that those responsible for these heinous crimes face justice.
“We urge the public to stay alert,” he continued. “If you see something unusual, please report it to the authorities. It is only by working together that we can prevent such crimes from happening again.”
The arrest of Mrs. Onwuasonya and the successful rescue of the children mark a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to eradicate child trafficking in Imo State. Danjuma emphasized that the police would not rest on their laurels but would continue to pursue traffickers and dismantle networks involved in child abduction.
“We are determined to make Imo State a safe place for children,” Danjuma stated. “We will not stop until we have rid the state of those who seek to exploit and harm innocent children.”
Child trafficking has been a growing concern in various parts of Nigeria, and the recent incident highlights the dangers children face at the hands of traffickers. Mrs. Onwuasonya, known for her involvement in the illegal trade, is now facing charges of child abduction and trafficking.
The police have also called on members of the public to remain watchful and take action if they suspect any cases of child trafficking or abduction in their communities. Danjuma reminded the public that it is their responsibility to protect vulnerable children and ensure that traffickers do not succeed in their criminal activities.
“This operation is just one step in a much larger fight against human trafficking,” Danjuma said. “We will continue to work tirelessly to identify and apprehend those who prey on the most vulnerable members of society.”
As the investigation continues, the Imo State Police Command has vowed to increase its efforts to curb human trafficking and ensure the safety of all children within the state. The authorities have also promised to work closely with local communities to raise awareness and prevent future incidents.
The successful rescue of these three children has been welcomed by many, offering a glimmer of hope in the fight against child trafficking. However, as the issue continues to pose a significant threat, the police have emphasized that it will take continued vigilance from both law enforcement and the public to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in Imo State.
“We are on the lookout for traffickers and will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to protect children,” Danjuma concluded. “Together, we can ensure that no more children fall into the hands of these criminals.”
