Police Rescue Three Abducted Children, Arrest Suspected Traffickers in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully foiled a suspected child trafficking operation, rescuing three abducted children and arresting two suspects believed to be connected to the crime.

The operation followed a distress report received on June 3 concerning the alleged abduction of three children from Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed that community youths in Ekparakwa played a critical role in the operation after receiving intelligence regarding the movement of the suspects.

Acting swiftly, local youths reportedly mounted a roadblock along the Ekparakwa-Uyo Road and intercepted individuals believed to be transporting the children out of the area. Upon receiving the information, police operatives launched a coordinated rescue mission and strategically blocked major exit routes within the vicinity. During the operation, detectives intercepted a minibus bearing registration number 830 PH.

A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three missing children. The victims were rescued unharmed and immediately placed under protective care before being reunited with their families.

Police authorities identified the arrested suspects as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Oruk Anam Local Government Area. Both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended both police personnel and vigilant community members whose timely intervention contributed to the successful outcome of the operation.

He further directed investigators to conduct a comprehensive probe aimed at identifying and arresting other members of the suspected trafficking network.

The command reiterated its commitment to combating child trafficking and other organised crimes while urging residents to continue providing credible information capable of assisting law enforcement agencies.