The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended two suspects in connection with an alleged child trafficking ring, while successfully rescuing two infant victims in the state.
The suspects, identified as Ugochukwu Onyebuchi and Ogechi Nmezi, were arrested on January 24, 2025, for allegedly defrauding two women, Juliet Blossom and Esther Michael, under the guise of facilitating the adoption of their babies.
A statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had previously lured Gift Chimanu, the mother of a two-month-old girl, Evidence Chimanu, and Hope Onyebuchi, the mother of a one-year-old boy, Chukwuemeka Kingsley, into their scheme.
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The police further disclosed that the suspects were allegedly working in collaboration with members of a local vigilante group, OSPAC to carry their nefarious act.
The arrested individuals have since confessed to their involvement and remain in police custody as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate, including the implicated vigilante members.
The rescued children have been safely reunited with their families.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to fighting child trafficking and ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals in the state.