Police Rescue 12 Trafficked Children, Recover Arms in Anti-Crime Operatio

Eric Patrick

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the successful rescue of 12 trafficked children and the arrest of two suspected child traffickers in Abia State, as well as the recovery of a cache of illegal firearms in Kogi State.

According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Monday, said these operations were carried out by the Kogi and Abia State Police Commands, as part of intensified efforts to curb crime and protect vulnerable populations across the country.

In Kogi State, officers intercepted a green Sharon vehicle that sped through a security checkpoint. Following a high-speed chase, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush.

A search of the abandoned vehicle uncovered a significant stockpile of illegal weapons: five AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, 283 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition, 62 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, and two rounds of 7.62x59mm ammunition.

Police believe the arms may be linked to a recent armed robbery incident at a fuel station in Kabba. Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

In a separate development in Aba, Abia State, police arrested two individuals — 49-year-old Blessing Emebo and 42-year-old Sunday Emebo — for operating an unregistered and illegal motherless babies' home within their residential apartment on Ikot Ekpene Road.

Acting on credible intelligence, officers raided the premises and discovered 12 children, aged between six months and 14 years, believed to have been trafficked from villages in the Arochukwu area.

The rescued children have since been placed in the care of the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs. 

The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to face charges after the conclusion of investigations.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, praised the dedication and bravery of the officers involved in both operations. He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to tackling crime and safeguarding citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as children.

"The public must remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.

"Together, we can ensure the safety of our communities," the IGP said.

These developments come amid ongoing nationwide security efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to reduce crime and protect human lives and property.