The Anambra State Government recently took six individuals into custody for allegedly exploiting children. Officials from the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Child Welfare performed the operation in Nnewi, where they recovered 29 children who had been forced into street hawking.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the state police spokesperson, confirmed that the ministry transferred 36 people—including the six suspects—to the police department for identity verification. The police plan to reunite the rescued children with their families and home states through partnerships with child protection groups.
The suspects identified by the police are Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma, and Moses Anyingo. Authorities noted that these individuals are currently under investigation for their roles in child labor and exploitation.
Police Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu emphasized that the command is working to end hazardous labor and street hawking, which leave children vulnerable to trafficking and abuse. The command is also urging the public to report any suspected cases of exploitation to local law enforcement immediately.
