Police Rescue 12 Trafficked Children, Recover Arms Cache in Major Security Operations Across Abia, Kogi

Police Rescue 12 Trafficked Children, Recover Arms Cache in Major Security Operations Across Abia, Kogi

By NAOSNP News Desk

The Nigeria Police Force has achieved a significant breakthrough in its ongoing fight against crime with the rescue of 12 trafficked children in Abia State and the recovery of illegal arms and ammunition in Kogi State. The coordinated efforts, which led to the arrest of two suspects and the interception of dangerous weapons, highlight the Force’s renewed commitment to public safety and the protection of vulnerable populations.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the twin operations underscore the dedication of officers across state commands and the strategic guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM.

Arms Interception in Kogi State

In Kogi, a green-colored Sharon vehicle reportedly sped through a police checkpoint, prompting a high-speed chase by officers. The driver eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a cache of weapons, including:

• 5 AK-47 rifles

• 8 AK-47 magazines

• 283 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition

• 62 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition

• 2 rounds of 7.62x59mm ammunition

Preliminary intelligence suggests a potential link to a recent armed robbery incident at a fuel station in Kabba. Investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

Illegal Orphanage Uncovered in Abia State

In another operation, operatives from the Abia State Police Command, acting on credible intelligence, arrested two suspects—49-year-old Blessing Emebo and 42-year-old Sunday Emebo—who were operating an unregistered orphanage within their residential apartment on Ikot Ekpene Road, Aba.

Upon storming the location, police discovered 12 children aged between six months and fourteen years, allegedly trafficked from various villages in the Arochukwu area. The minors have been safely handed over to the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs for proper care and rehabilitation. The suspects remain in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

IGP Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Crime

Commending the officers involved, IGP Egbetokun praised their bravery and professionalism, reiterating the Nigeria Police Force’s unyielding resolve to eliminate criminal networks, illegal arms trafficking, and child exploitation.

He also urged citizens to remain vigilant, avoid handing over children to unfamiliar persons, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

“These developments reflect our continued efforts to make communities safer and to dismantle structures that endanger the lives of innocent Nigerians,” the IGP stated.

The Police Force reaffirmed its appeal to the public to partner with law enforcement agencies in safeguarding society, especially by sharing timely and actionable intelligence.