Rita Odafe
Authorities in Imo State have disrupted an operation by alleged human organ traffickers, resulting in the capture of a man related to the abduction of a 19-year-old girl in Owerri.
ASP Henry Okoye, the public relations officer for the police command, revealed the details during a press briefing on October 10, 2024. The police had received intelligence about a suspected kidnapping and trafficking group active in the Douglass area of Owerri.
During the operation, Justine Emmanuel, a 38-year-old from Amaimo in Ikeduru LGA, was arrested while the young woman was saved.
“The quick actions of our patrol team led to the observation of the suspects in a blue and white bus attempting to forcibly transport the girl to a location with malicious intent. The victim managed to escape by jumping from the vehicle, with immediate rescue following,” he explained.
Okoye added that police pursued the vehicle, which was eventually abandoned by the suspects. While one suspect was taken into custody, others fled into the surrounding area.
The police are continuing their investigation to identify further members of the group and to gauge the extent of their criminal activities.
He emphasized that this successful operation reflects the police’s dedication to fighting violent crime and protecting the community.
Finally, ASP Okoye reminded the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior, assuring that updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.
