Law enforcement officials in Niger State have taken two women into custody following accusations of human trafficking and involvement in ritualistic practices. Officers successfully recovered four children, aged four to seven, during a raid in Suleja.
SP Wasiu Abiodun, the police spokesperson, stated that the arrests occurred on June 3, 2026, after intelligence reports led the State Intelligence Department to the suspects. The individuals in custody are 68-year-old Promise Chukwudi and 62-year-old Suzanna Onojekwo.
While the women asserted that parents from Taraba State voluntarily surrendered the children for adoption, police investigators noted significant inconsistencies in their statements. These claims were further challenged when families from Abuja, Nasarawa, and Benue states arrived to identify the victims as their own.
A subsequent search of the suspects’ premises revealed various suspicious items, including animal skulls, ritual objects, bird feathers, and specific articles of clothing. Mrs. Chukwudi, who allegedly operated an unregistered orphanage, also described herself as a traditional herbalist.
The suspects have been moved to the Minna Police Headquarters for legal proceedings, while the children are now under the protection of child welfare authorities. The investigation remains active as officials work to reunite the minors with their legal guardians.
