Four suspected kidnappers, Ifeoma Anyanwu, 41, Chibuzor Lucky, 42, Isidore Ozioma, 56, and Charity Kalu, 24, have been arrested by the Imo State Police command.
The suspects are accused of kidnapping children with the intention of selling them for criminal gains.
The operation that led to their apprehension was carried out by the detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri.
In a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye disclosed that the detectives through intelligent gathering swung into action that led to the smashing of the syndicate that specialized in child trafficking between Imo – Abia axis.
“The syndicate involved in the abduction of children from unsuspecting parents. The operation led to the rescue of three children, who were abducted on July 4, 2024, in Ndinwegbu Umuoma, Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA.
“The suspects arrested include: Ifeoma Anyanwu, age, 41 from Oloko Ikwuano LGA, Abia State, Chibuzor Lucky, age 42, from Umuezeala Umuerim, Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State, 24 years Charity Kalu from Okono, Ohiafia LGA, Abia State and 56 years Isidore Ozioma from Umuhu Onicha, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Imo State.
“Investigations revealed that the suspects lured the children into their tricycle while they were playing outside, subsequently transporting them to a hidden location in Aba where they were sold for 1,000,000 Nair,” he said.
The police spokesperson further stated that the suspects were currently undergoing a thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, as they continue efforts to locate additional missing children.
