Police Bust Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue 33 Underage Girls

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have dismantled a suspected child trafficking syndicate in Aguleri, rescuing 33 underage girls and arresting one female suspect.

The operation, carried out on Tuesday, 7 January 2026, was led by officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu following a distress report received through the Police Command Control Room from the relatives of the three missing children who were allegedly abducted from Ebonyi State and taken to an unknown location.

According to police sources, the victims; Divine Mbam (14), Nwagu Favour (15), and Oke Blessing (18) had been missing since 26 September 2025. Intelligence later revealed that the girls were sighted at Emma Pigin Road in Aguleri, prompting swift police action.

During the operation, officers arrested a 37-year-old woman identified as Ifeoma Success Anthony and rescued 33 underage girls from a house in Awkuzu. Preliminary investigations indicate that the building was allegedly being used for child trafficking and prostitution.

Police further disclosed that the property is believed to be owned by one Mrs Ngozi Nnanyelugo, aged 45, who is currently on the run. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend her and other members of the syndicate.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that investigations are continuing to determine the full extent of the crime and identify additional accomplices.

“The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property, especially vulnerable children,” SP Ikenga said.

He also urged members of the public to continue providing useful information to support ongoing investigations.

The police assured that further developments in the case would be communicated as the investigations progress.