The Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 13 children from a trafficking syndicate in Anambra State.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adamawa Command, SP Suleiman Nguroje, confirmed the incident to LEADERSHIP in Yola, on Sunday.
Nguroje explained that efforts were being made to identify the parents of the rescued children to reunite them with their families.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Moris Dankwambo would address journalists over the matter on Monday.
Meanwhile, Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has assured that the rescued children would undergo rehabilitation and reintegration.
The children, said to be between 5 and 9 years, were abducted from different parts of Adamawa and sold to a buyer in Nnewi in Anambra State.
Police said the children were receiving medical care and psychological support at the Specialist Hospital in Jimeta, Yola, the state capital.
Fintiri condemned the inhumane act and assured that the government will not only ensure that justice is served, but will also provide comprehensive support for the victims’ recovery.
The police intervention followed a coordinated effort between the Adamawa State Government and security agencies after credible intelligence was received regarding the children’s disappearance.
A 45-year-old woman, Mrs. Ngozi Abdulwahab, a resident of Jambutu in Yola North local government area, who was found to have sold the children, including her own biological child, to a 65-year-old woman, Mrs. Uche Okoye who is based in Kabuku, Nnewi were arrested during the operation.
Governor Fintiri urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious movements, involving those of children to security agencies.
