The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has foiled an alleged child trafficking operation and rescued three children abducted in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of the state.
The police also arrested two suspects linked to the crime following a coordinated operation aided by local youths.
The suspects were identified as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
Police spokesman, DSP Timfon John, said the command received a distress call on June 3, reporting the abduction of three children in Mkpat Enin.
According to her, youths in Ekparakwa community, acting on a tip-off, mounted a roadblock along the Ekparakwa-Uyo Road and intercepted the suspects who were allegedly attempting to flee with the children.
She said police operatives immediately launched a rescue operation and blocked strategic routes within the area.
During the operation, detectives intercepted a minibus with registration number 830 PH.
A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three children inside the bus.
“The children were rescued unharmed, while two suspects were arrested on the spot,” the police spokesperson said.
She added that the victims have since been reunited with their families.
DSP John said the suspects remain in police custody while investigations continue to uncover other members of the suspected trafficking syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the swift response of police operatives and the vigilance of community members whose timely information led to the successful rescue operation.
He also directed a comprehensive investigation aimed at identifying and arresting other accomplices connected to the crime.
The police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies, assuring that all useful information would be treated confidentially.
