Rita Odafe
The Imo State Police Force, through its X-Squad Division, has successfully dismantled a child abduction ring, apprehending four individuals and saving 20-month-old Chimamanda Joy, the daughter of 35-year-old Mrs. Joy Ekwennaya, who is visually impaired and hails from Amuri Omanze in the Isu Local Government Area.
This significant development followed thorough investigative work initiated by Mrs. Ekwennaya’s report on April 8, 2025. She was lured to Umuahia, Abia State, under false pretenses of receiving financial support from a fraudulent charity, which was part of the syndicate’s scheme to kidnap her daughter.
Upon interrogation, the suspects revealed critical information, prompting a follow-up action in Aba. On May 27, 2025, around 5 PM, law enforcement officers rescued the abducted child and detained another suspect, Chioma Theresa (42) from Aboh Mbaise, Imo State. During questioning, Chioma admitted to purchasing the child for N1,500,000 from Gabriel Amarachi (41) from Ngwa, Aba South, Abia State, who falsely claimed to be a Social Welfare officer.
Further inquiries indicated that a woman identified as Precious and her husband orchestrated the entire operation and are currently evading capture. They manipulated the situation to draw Mrs. Ekwennaya to Aba, preying on her situation under the guise of providing help.
Efforts continue to locate the remaining suspects. The rescued child has undergone medical check-ups and was safely reunited with her mother on May 28, 2025, following proper documentation.
Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has reaffirmed the Police Command’s dedication to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, particularly children. He emphasizes that criminals will find no refuge in Imo State and encourages residents to remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency contacts. More updates will be provided as they become available.
DSP Henry Okoye,
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Police Command
