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Chukwujekwu Ilozue
The Anambra State Police Command on Monday received 36 persons, aged between 6 and 44 years, including six suspects, from the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs for profiling as part of ongoing efforts to combat child labour, street hawking, human trafficking, and other forms of child exploitation in the State.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, a Superintendent of Police, the individuals comprises 29 rescued children/young persons and six suspects including Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma and Moses Anyingo who were arrested in Nnewi, allegedly linked to their exploitation, before being handed over to the Command to facilitate comprehensive profiling, identification, and investigations.
According to Ikenga, the exercise is aimed at establishing their identities, determining the circumstances surrounding their involvement, and ensuring the possible reunification of the victims with their families and respective states of origin where necessary, in collaboration with relevant government agencies and child protection stakeholders.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, Ikioye Orutugu, PhD, reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons from all forms of abuse and exploitation. He emphasised that child labour and street hawking expose children to serious risks, including trafficking, abuse, neglect, and other criminal activities, assuring that anyone found culpable will be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner further urged parents, guardians, and members of the public to refrain from engaging children in hazardous labour or exposing them to the dangers 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.
He said:”The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to collaborating with the Ministry of Women Affairs and other relevant stakeholders to protect the rights of children, ensure justice for victims, and strengthen measures against child exploitation across the State”.
