Residents of Abia State were left stunned after police operatives rescued two missing children and arrested three women linked to an alleged child-stealing network.
The operation was carried out after intelligence reports exposed the movement of the children across states.
The rescued children, identified as three-year-old Caleb Tamunoye Paul and Joy David, were safely reunited with their family after the operation. Both children are from Okrika in Rivers State.
The police revealed that the children were allegedly lured away with donuts and soft drinks before being moved out of their community.
According to the Abia State Police Command, operatives attached to Akwete Divisional Headquarters carried out the arrest on May 10, 2026. Community vigilantes also assisted during the operation.
Police arrested Vera Imiobong Udoyang, 30, in Abia State after she was found with the children. During interrogation, she reportedly confessed to taking the children from Ozoaporo in Okrika, Rivers State.
Investigators said the suspect admitted she used snacks and drinks to gain the children’s trust before taking them away. The confession reportedly exposed a wider network involving other suspects.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Chioma Duru Ukanwoke, 40, from Imo State, and Ezinne Ukandu, 41, from Abia State. Police said the suspects allegedly worked together in arranging the movement of the children.
According to preliminary findings, Ezinne Ukandu was allegedly contacted by another woman identified simply as Chioma, who is currently on the run. The woman was reportedly searching for a male child around three years old or a family willing to give out a child for adoption.
Meanwhile, the three suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue at the State Criminal Investigation Department. Efforts are also ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect linked to the case.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Danladi Isa, urged parents to remain alert and closely monitor their children.
He warned families to educate children against accepting gifts, food, or drinks from strangers. Furthermore, he encouraged residents to quickly report suspicious individuals seen around children.
The police also released emergency contact numbers for residents to report urgent security concerns.
Hotlines:
08035415405, 08079210004
08079210005, 08079210006
Authorities stressed that community cooperation remains important in fighting child trafficking and related crimes.
