Anambra Police Crack Child Trafficking Syndicate, Arrest Three, Rescue Ten Children
By Oge Onyeanusi Onitsha
In a major breakthrough against child trafficking, the Anambra State Police Command has dismantled a notorious child-stealing syndicate operating in the 3-3 area of Onitsha. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects, including a fake medical doctor, and the rescue of ten malnourished children aged between 5 and 8 years.
In a press briefly by the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, stated that intelligence-led investigations by officers from the 3-3 Divisional Headquarters resulted in the arrest of Odinakachukwu Okorie (M), Ifunanya Ogbonna (F), and Daniel Ikebuilo (M), a fake doctor. The suspects were found harboring ten children in an apartment in Inland Town, Onitsha.
According to CP Orutugu, the investigation began following a report of a missing 6-year-old boy on July 28, 2024. The police closely monitored Odinakachukwu Okorie, who was suspected of involvement in child theft. On February 13, 2025, after another report of a missing 5-year-old girl from the same area, officers moved swiftly to arrest Odinakachukwu.
During interrogation, Odinakachukwu implicated Ifunanya Ogbonna as part of the syndicate. Their confessions led to the rescue of both missing children and the arrest of Daniel Ikebuilo, who was posing as a medical doctor. Shockingly, Ifunanya admitted to selling the 5-year-old girl for ₦1 million to Daniel Ikebuilo.
Further investigations led officers to the apartment in Inland Town, Onitsha, where they rescued eight additional children who appeared weak and malnourished.
The rescued children have been handed over to the Anambra State Ministry of Women’s Affairs for medical care and rehabilitation. The police have urged any parents searching for their missing children to visit the Anambra State Police Command for identification and reunification.
CP Orutugu emphasized the importance of community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement in tackling child trafficking. He assured the public that the police remain committed to protecting the most vulnerable and bringing traffickers to justice.
This latest operation underscores the dedication of the Anambra State Police Command in combating child trafficking and ensuring the safety of children across the state.
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