Nigeria police rescue trafficking victims including children and foreigners, arrest 11 suspects in Anambra and Ondo states amid ongoing anti-trafficking clampdown
The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled two major trafficking syndicates operating within the country, rescuing multiple victims including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals and arresting 11 suspects in coordinated operations across Anambra and Ondo States.
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According to a statement by Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the sting was led by operatives from Zone-13 Command following credible intelligence.
The officers uncovered a sophisticated baby factory and child trafficking ring spread across Enugu and Anambra.
Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56).
“These individuals confessed to child theft, abduction, illegal adoptions, and operating unlicensed medical centres serving as baby factories,” Adejobi said.
Police rescued several victims, including a seven-month-old baby, a four-year-old child, and two heavily pregnant women held captive in a remote village.
The pregnant victims, from Ebonyi State, were allegedly detained for forced delivery and sale of their newborns.
“The rescue was swift and executed without harm to the victims,” Adejobi confirmed. “They are now in safe custody, receiving medical care. Manhunt efforts are ongoing to arrest fleeing syndicate members.”
In a separate incident, Ondo State Police rescued David Angerinya, a Ghanaian national trafficked into Nigeria under false pretences.
The operation followed a petition from Interpol’s Liaison Office in Abuja and led to the arrest of three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix.
The investigation revealed the trio were part of a cross-border trafficking ring luring West African nationals with promises of overseas jobs and travel visas.
Thirty-nine other Ghanaian victims were discovered, many without valid documents. Some had expired passports, indicating long-term exploitation. The victims, found in harsh conditions, are receiving medical attention.
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“These cases highlight a disturbing trend of organised trafficking targeting vulnerable individuals,” Adejobi said. “The Force is intensifying operations to bring all perpetrators to justice.”
