Trafficking: Policemen reject N1m bribe, rescue two children in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has arrested two suspected child traffickers and rescued two stolen children in separate operations.

The command’s spokesman, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, highlighting a strong display of professionalism by officers who rejected a ₦1m bribe to ensure justice prevailed.

*”On Feb. 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 N1.8m,”* Okoye stated.

He further revealed that in a desperate attempt to evade arrest, the suspect offered the officers ₦1m as a bribe, which was outrightly rejected.

The officers proceeded with the lawful arrest and ensured the safe rescue of the child.

“Further investigations revealed possible links to a larger trafficking network, adding that more arrests are expected,” Okoye added.

In a separate operation, detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department arrested a 32-year-old woman, Confidence Odoh, for allegedly abducting her ex-neighbour’s son.

Okoye stated that investigations revealed Odoh, who was arrested on February 4, had stolen 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,” he said.

Reiterating the command’s commitment to combating child trafficking and other organized crimes, Okoye urged residents, particularly parents, to remain vigilant and closely monitor their children.

He called on the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or contact the following emergency numbers: 0803 477 3600 and 0814 802 4755.

(NAN)