Crimes

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.

Assailants kill policeman, wife in Ekiti

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

Kunle Ayo

Recent Posts

Atiku backed rotational presidency after June 12 annulment — Akume

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has revealed that former…

16 minutes ago

Kwankwaso opens door to reconciliation with Yusuf

Former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed…

33 minutes ago

Umahi gives Abuja-Lokoja road contractors 72-hour deadline to resume work

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to contractors handling the…

1 hour ago

Real Madrid sack Arbeloa, set to appoint Mourinho as new coach

Real Madrid have terminated the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as the club’s head coach. The…

2 hours ago

NUPRC fixes June 12 deadline for 2025 oil block bid submissions

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced Friday, June 12, 2026, as the…

2 hours ago

First batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa to arrive Thursday

The first batch of Nigerians being repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks is…

3 hours ago

This website uses cookies.