Odita Sunday 
AWKA – The Anambra State Police Command has achieved a significant breakthrough in its campaign against child trafficking, resulting in the arrest of a female suspect and the rescue of 33 underage girls in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the successful operation was conducted on January 7, 2026, by operatives of the Command’s Rapid Response Squad based in Awkuzu. The mission was initiated following a distress report received through the Command’s Control Room.
The investigation was triggered by reports from the relatives of three missing girls—Divine Mbam (14), Nwagu Favour (15), and Oke Blessing (18). The girls were reportedly abducted in Ebonyi State on September 26, 2025, and were recently spotted at Emma Pigin Road in Aguleri.
Police operatives stormed the identified location, leading to the arrest of 37-year-old Ifeoma Success Anthony. During the raid, 33 underage victims were rescued from the premises.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the building was being utilized as a hub for child trafficking and prostitution,” SP Ikenga stated. He added that the property is allegedly owned by 45-year-old Mrs. Ngozi Nnanyelugo, who is currently at large and being sought by authorities.
The police spokesman emphasized that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the principal suspect and dismantle the entire criminal network involved in this operation.
“The Anambra State Police Command remains resolute in its mission to protect vulnerable children. We urge members of the public to continue providing actionable information to assist our efforts,” Ikenga added. He noted that further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
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