Policemen reject N1m bribe, rescue children from traffickers

The operatives of the Imo State Police Command have arrested two suspected child traffickers and rescued two abducted children in separate operations.

The command’s spokesman, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

Okoye said in a strong display of professionalism, the operatives of the command rejected a N1 million bribe to ensure justice prevailed in one of the operations.

Okoye stated: “On February 21, operatives of the Safer Highway Unit, while conducting a robust stop-and-search on the Owerri – Aba Express Road, apprehended one Eze Chika, 45.

“The suspect was found with a stolen four-year-old child.

“Initially, she claimed the child was hers but later admitted to purchasing the child from a suspected child trafficking syndicate in Aba for N1.8 million.”

He noted that in a desperate attempt to evade arrest, the suspect offered the police officers N1 million bribe, which was outrightly rejected.

Okoye said the police officers proceeded with the lawful arrest and ensured the safe rescue of the child.

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He added that further investigations revealed possible links to a larger trafficking network, stating that more arrests are expected.

Okoye said the detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) also arrested a 32-year-old woman, Confidence Odo, for allegedly abducting her ex-neighbour’s son.

He said investigations revealed that Odoh, who was arrested on February 4, abducted the child while he was playing in the compound where he resides.

“The child was rescued and reunited with his parents, Mr and Mrs Michael Ududiri, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend possible accomplices.”

The police spokesman reiterated the command’s commitment to combating child trafficking and other organised crimes in Imo State.

Okoye also urged residents, particularly parents, to be vigilant and monitor their children closely.

He urged the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

The Star