Chinedum Treasure
Police in Anambra State have taken into custody 36 persons, including six suspects, as part of intensified efforts to combat child trafficking, street hawking, child labour and other forms of child exploitation across the state.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Monday said the victims, aged between 6 and 44 years, were on Sunday received from the State Ministry of Women Affairs for profiling and further investigation.
He identified the six suspects as Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma and Moses Anyingo, adding that they were arrested in Nnewi and reportedly linked to the victims’ exploitation.
According to him, the profiling exercise was aimed at establishing the identities of the victims and suspects, determining the circumstances surrounding the alleged exploitation, and facilitating the possible reunification of the rescued persons with their families and states of origin where necessary, in collaboration with relevant government agencies and child protection stakeholders.
He restated the Command’s commitment to working closely with Ministry of Women Affairs and other stakeholders to safeguard rights of children, ensure victims’ justice and strengthen measures against child exploitation across the State.
“Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons from all forms of abuse and exploitation.
“He warned that child labour and street hawking expose children to grave dangers, including trafficking, abuse, neglect and other criminal activities, stressing that anyone found culpable would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The Commissioner also urged parents, guardians and members of the public to desist from engaging children in hazardous labour or exposing them to the risks associated with street hawking.
“He encouraged residents to report cases of child abuse, trafficking, exploitation or neglect to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency channels,” Ikenga added.
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