Security forces arrest three child traffickers, rescue of eight children in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Security forces in Benue have arrested three suspected child traffickers and rescued eight children who were allegedly being moved from an orphanage in Plateau to Anambra State, Zagazola Makama informed that the incident occurred on Thursday in Makurdi.
Sources said the suspects Monica Okonkwo, Nkiru Nwosu, and Francisca Oyechele, all of Umude Oka, Dunukofia in Anambra State were intercepted by operatives of Orokam Division during a routine patrol along the Orokam–Enugu road at about 5:05 p.m. on Nov. 20.
According to the sources, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects had allegedly trafficked eight minors from Divine Peace and Grace Orphanage, Jos, Plateau State, and claimed they were taking them to Anambra.
The rescued children are: Amanda Chukwujekwu, 8; Chioma Maduagwu, 8; Oyechegi Kosisochukwu, 9; Okonkwo Odinaka Chukwu, 9; Arinze Chukwu, 7; and Oluchukwu Esther, 9.
The sources said the children were immediately taken into protective custody, while the suspects were detained for further investigation.
The command assured the public that all those involved in the trafficking network would be traced and prosecuted.
He added that efforts were ongoing to contact authorities in Plateau State and the management of the orphanage for further clarification.
