The police commissioner revealed that they had apprehended members of a child trafficking ring. Based on intelligence gathered, the authorities arrested three individuals - Michael Emmanuel Edet, Ability Henry Tom, and Uwem Udoh Moses - from their hideouts in the Ibesikpo and Aka Etinan road areas. The suspects were accused of kidnapping a 12-year-old boy who was selling groundnuts along Oron road and transporting him to Ovum Community in Obingwa LGA, Abia State.
According to Punch News, the investigation revealed that the abducted child was then sold for 400,000 naira to a woman named Loveth Nkwankwo, who resided in Ovum Community, Obingwa LGA. Further probes led to the arrest of Loveth Nkwakwo in Abia State. The detained individuals confessed to their involvement in the crime and promised to assist in apprehending any other fleeing members of their syndicate. Fortunately, the victimized child was rescued and is now safe with the authorities.
The commissioner stated that all the suspects will face prosecution once the investigations are completed. He appealed to the people of Akwa Ibom to continue providing the police with valuable information that could aid in eradicating criminal activities and elements within the state. The commissioner also expressed gratitude for the substantial support provided by the state governor and assured that he would leave no effort spared in maintaining security and peace in the region.