By Our Correspondent
National News – Security operatives of the Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) have rescued two stolen children and arrested a suspected trafficker, identified as Sunday Nomen, during an intelligence-led operation in Nkpor, located in Idemili Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The arrest occurred on Sunday after operatives tracked the suspect, a 42-year-old man reportedly from Abakaliki in Ebonyi State, who was allegedly involved in a child-trafficking syndicate operating across several states.
Authorities said the operation led to the rescue of two children aged three and eight who were being prepared for illegal sale.
Speaking while parading the suspect at the SASA headquarters in Onitsha on Monday, the agency’s spokesperson, Karen James, disclosed that the suspect was apprehended through a strategic undercover operation carried out by officers from the agency’s Onitsha branch.
According to James, an intelligence operative posed as a buyer interested in purchasing one of the children.
During negotiations with the suspect, security agents moved in and arrested him, preventing what could have been another successful trafficking deal.
Preliminary interrogation revealed that Nomen allegedly bought the children for about N3.5 million from unknown sources before transporting them to Onitsha.
He reportedly intended to deliver the children to an accomplice identified simply as Mrs Uju, who authorities believe introduced him into the illegal child-trafficking network.
Investigators further discovered that the victims were temporarily lodged in a hotel in Nkpor while the suspect searched for his accomplice and finalized arrangements to sell them to potential buyers.
James explained that the successful rescue highlights SASA’s ongoing efforts to combat organised crime and protect vulnerable residents, particularly children who are often targeted by trafficking syndicates.
She added that the rescued children are currently safe and receiving care while authorities work to identify their families and return them home.
Meanwhile, the suspect will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for further questioning.
Officials say investigations are ongoing to uncover other members of the trafficking ring and dismantle the wider network involved in the illegal trade.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies to help curb child trafficking across the state.
