By Tina Amanda
The Rivers State Police Command has dismantled a child trafficking syndicate in Port Harcourt, rescuing four children aged between one and thirteen years and arresting key suspects.
Among those apprehended is Esther Anthony, who allegedly stole the children from the Swali community in Bayelsa State.
The children were found lodged at Alaeze Guest House in the Rumukwachi community of Port Harcourt, where they were reportedly waiting to be handed over to a nurse named Loveth, who runs a maternity home.
Suspicion arose when the guest house’s Managing Director noticed irregularities in Esther Anthony’s activities and refused her request to check out with the children, insisting that their mother be present.
In an attempt to divert attention, the suspect Esther Anthony returned with police officers, accusing the Managing Director of abducting the children and threatening her with a firearm. However, the Managing Director reached out to the Choba Area Command, leading to the suspect arrest.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Esther Anthony had collaborated with an accomplice named Favour to traffic the children. Another suspect, Purity Silas, was also arrested in connection to the case.
Further revelations exposed Esther Anthony as the culprit behind the theft of three other children from the Rumuodara area of Port Harcourt, who were also sold to Loveth.
The suspects have confessed to the crime and are currently in police custody as the case has been transferred to the State CID in Port Harcourt. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Meanwhile, the rescued children have been reunited with their families.
The Rivers State Police Command Spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, reaffirmed the Command commitment to combating child trafficking and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
