An Abia child trafficking suspect has been arrested. This happened after police operatives rescued six children allegedly found in his custody in Aba.
According to Punch, the Abia State Police Command confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Thursday. This statement was given by its spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka.
The suspect, identified as 51-year-old Nnamdi Lazarus, is from Mbano in Imo State. However, he was residing in Uratta, Aba, at the time of his arrest.
Chinaka said operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit in Aba North acted on credible intelligence before apprehending him.
“Acting on credible and actionable intelligence, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, Aba North, apprehended Nnamdi Lazarus, currently residing in Uratta Aba, Abia State,” the statement read.
Police said the suspect was allegedly found harbouring the six children.
Six children reunited with families
The command said all six children rescued during the operation have been safely reunited with their families.
Investigators are now working to establish the full circumstances surrounding their alleged abduction. Moreover, they aim to identify other people suspected of being involved.
Police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend other alleged members of the child trafficking syndicate.
The command added that Lazarus would be charged to court after investigators conclude their inquiries.
Police promise further crackdown
The Abia State Police Command said the operation formed part of its intelligence-led efforts to tackle child trafficking. It is also addressing other crimes.
It reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. At the same time, it warned criminal groups that they would face sustained police action.
The command also maintained that there would be no safe haven for people involved in criminal activities in Abia.
The suspect remains accused at this stage, and the allegations against him have not been proven in court.
