Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have foiled the trafficking of three children and arrested two suspects in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
Key Highlights:
- Akwa Ibom State Police Command rescued three abducted children in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
- The children, who are siblings, were found unharmed in a mini-bus.
- Two suspects were arrested during the police operation.
- The children have been reunited with their family.
- Police are investigating to uncover other members of the suspected trafficking network.
The children, who are siblings from the same family, were rescued in Ekparakwa community after a coordinated police operation prompted by a distress call from a vigilant resident.
Speaking at the Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the incident was reported on June 3, 2026, at about 7:00 p.m., when authorities received information that three children had been abducted in Ekparakwa village.
According to her, detectives immediately launched an operation, strategically blocking entry and exit routes across the area to prevent the suspects from escaping with the victims.
“Upon receipt of the report, detectives were immediately mobilized, and all strategic entry and exit routes within the area were swiftly cordoned off in a coordinated operation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the perpetrators,” she stated.
During the operation, officers intercepted a mini-bus bearing registration number 830 PH. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three abducted children, who were found unharmed.
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The police arrested two suspects at the scene. They were identified as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Ikot Itokpo village in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, currently residing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Ikot Ikpene village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
DSP John confirmed that the children have since been reunited with their family, while the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, commended the operatives for their swift response and praised residents whose timely information contributed to the successful rescue.
He directed investigators to carry out a thorough and discreet probe to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected trafficking network and ensure they are brought to justice.
Azare also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating child trafficking, abduction, and other criminal activities across the state, urging residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies.
