The abducted Children And The Three Women. Photo Credit: Facebook
Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have successfully rescued two children and arrested three women suspected of involvement in child trafficking in a coordinated operation in the Akwete area of the state.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, the arrests were made on May 10, 2026, following actionable intelligence and collaboration with local vigilante groups.
The statement revealed that one of the suspects, 30-year-old Vera Imiobong Udoyang, was apprehended in possession of the children.
During interrogation, she reportedly confessed to abducting the minors after luring them with donuts and soft drinks in Ozoaporo, Okrika, Rivers State.
Further investigations identified the other suspects as Chioma Duru Ukanwoke (40) and Ezinne Ukandu (41), all from different states across the region. Police disclosed that the crime was part of a broader network allegedly coordinated by a woman identified only as “Chioma,” who is currently at large.
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Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects were linked through a chain of contacts aimed at sourcing male children, possibly for illegal adoption purposes. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing mastermind behind the operation.
The rescued children have since been safely reunited with their families, while the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Danladi Isa, has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and educate their children about the dangers of interacting with strangers.
He also called on the public to report suspicious activities involving children to the nearest police station or through emergency hotlines.
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