By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued three abducted children and arrested two suspected child traffickers in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the operation followed a distress call from a concerned resident reporting the abduction of the children in Ekparakwa Village.The statement said police detectives were immediately deployed, while all entry and exit routes in the area were cordoned off to facilitate a coordinated rescue operation.
During the search, officers intercepted a mini bus with registration number 830 PH. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three children, who were rescued unharmed. Two suspects were arrested at the scene.The suspects were identified as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Ikot Itokpo Village in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Ikot Ikpene Village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
Police confirmed that the rescued children have been reunited with their families, while the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the swift response of officers and praised members of the public for providing timely information that aided the operation.
He ordered a discreet investigation to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected criminal network, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to tackling child trafficking and other violent crimes in the state.The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue sharing credible information with security agencies to enhance public safety.
