Child Trafficking: Police rescue 11-year-old girl

The police in Ebonyi State have rescued an 11-year-old girl, allegedly kidnapped in May 2026 by a baby trafficking syndicate.

Joshua Ukandu, the police spokesperson in Ebonyi, advised reporters in Abakaliki on Thursday.

Mr Ukandu, a superintendent of police, stated the breakthrough adopted months of sustained and discreet investigations into the girl’s abduction and the actions of the suspected trafficking syndicate.

He stated police operatives traced and arrested Nneka Ibekwe at Nkpor, Onitsha, Anambra, on 6 October over her alleged involvement within the crime.

According to him, preliminary investigations revealed that Mrs Ibekwe allegedly bought the girl from the syndicate in June 2026.

Mr Ukandu stated Mrs Ibekwe advised investigators that she approached Benedicta Umeh, also referred to as Nwanyi-Okigwe, after studying that she operated an orphanage and allegedly labored with welfare workplace officers to facilitate baby adoptions.

He added that Mrs Ibekwe claimed she had expressed curiosity in adopting a baby and was requested to offer a consent letter from her church and a medical certificates of health.

The police spokesperson stated Mrs Ibekwe additional alleged that she paid about ₦4 million to Mrs Umeh earlier than the kid was handed over to her, including that the claims remained topic to additional investigation.

He stated the rescued girl was protected, whereas efforts had been ongoing to reunite her together with her household.

READ ALSO: Bauchi records 70 human trafficking cases, three convictions – NAPTIP

Mr Ukandu stated the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi, Hope Okafor, counseled the officers for his or her diligence and dedication to the investigation.

He stated Mrs Okafor assured the general public that anybody discovered culpable would face the legislation.

She additionally suggested potential adoptive dad and mom to conduct correct investigations and observe due course of earlier than taking custody of any baby.

The police commissioner urged members of the general public to stay vigilant and promptly report suspicious actions involving youngsters to the closest police station.