The Rivers State Police Command has dismantled a child trafficking syndicate in Port Harcourt, rescuing four children and arresting two women linked to the crime.
According to DSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson, the operation took place on Monday, December 2, 2024. The first suspect, Esther Anthony, was arrested in the Rumukwachi community. She is accused of kidnapping children from a home in Bayelsa State. Another family later identified Anthony as the same person who had previously stolen three of their children in the Rumuodara area of Port Harcourt and sold them to a nurse named Loveth, who manages a maternity home.
A second suspect, Purity Silas, was also apprehended in connection with the case. Investigators discovered the rescued children, aged between one and thirteen, at Alaeze Guest House in Rumukwachi. Police believe the children were about to be handed over to Loveth before the operation interrupted the plan.
The Rivers State Police Command has reassured the public of its dedication to cracking down on child trafficking and protecting vulnerable children. Investigations are ongoing to ensure all parties involved face justice.
This successful operation serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities to the authorities.
“The Guest House Managing Director grew suspicious of Esther Anthony’s activities and refused to let her check out with the children, demanding that the mother be present,” the statement read.
“Esther Anthony left and returned with police officers, falsely claiming that the Guest House Manager had abducted the children and threatened her with a gun. However, the Managing Director contacted the Choba Area Command, and officers arrived to arrest Anthony.
“Preliminary Investigations revealed that Esther Anthony had conspired with someone named Favour to traffic the children from the Swali Community in Bayelsa State.
“Another suspect, Purity Silas, was also arrested in connection with the case. Notably, Esther Anthony was identified by another family as the same person who had stolen three of their children in the Rumuodara area of Port Harcourt and sold them to Loveth.
“All suspects have confessed to the crime. The case has been transferred to State CID, Port-Harcourt and suspects are currently in police custody. They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
“This case highlights the ongoing efforts of the Rivers State Police Command to combat child trafficking and ensure justice for victims and their families, Meanwhile the children have united with their family members.”
Meanwhile, in a video posted by Rivers journalist, Allwell Ene, the eldest of the children said the woman told them she was taking them to her child’s birthday.
