Police in Rivers State have uncovered a child trafficking ring in Rumukwachi, near Port Harcourt. The operation rescued four children, aged between one and 13.
The breakthrough came after the manager of Alaeze Guest House grew suspicious of a guest, Esther Anthony. Anthony tried to check out with the children without presenting their mother. When the manager refused, Anthony returned with police officers, falsely accusing the manager of child abduction and threatening her with a gun.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the arrests on Monday, December 2. She revealed that the children had been trafficked from Swali Community in Bayelsa State and were meant to be handed over to a nurse, Loveth, who runs a maternity home.
“The children were lodged at the guest house, ready to be trafficked. The manager’s alertness stopped the plan,” Iringe-Koko said. Investigations showed that Anthony had worked with another suspect, Favour, to carry out the crime.
Both suspects have confessed to their roles. The police praised the guest house manager for reporting the suspicious activity, which led to the arrests.
The children have been reunited with their families. The police assured the public that the suspects would face charges once investigations are complete.
This case highlights the importance of community vigilance in fighting child trafficking. Police have urged residents to report any suspicious activities.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Rivers State. Authorities promised to continue protecting children from exploitation and urged the public to support law enforcement in ensuring community safety.
