The Anambra State Police Command has taken custody of 36 persons, including six suspects, from the State Ministry of Women Affairs for profiling as part of efforts to tackle child labour, street hawking, and human trafficking.
In a statement issued on Sunday, 29th June 2026, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the group, aged between 6 and 44 years, comprises 29 rescued children/young persons and six suspects allegedly linked to their exploitation.
The suspects, arrested in Nnewi, were identified as Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma and Moses Anyingo. They were handed over to the police to enable comprehensive profiling, identification, and investigation.
According to the police, the exercise is aimed at establishing the identities of all those involved, determining the circumstances surrounding the children’s exploitation, and facilitating possible reunification with their families or respective states of origin. The process will be carried out in collaboration with government agencies and child protection stakeholders.
Police Condemn Child Exploitation
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons.
He warned that child labour and street hawking expose minors to trafficking, abuse, neglect, and other criminal activities. “Anyone found culpable will be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” CP Orutugu stated.
The Command also urged parents, guardians, and the public to stop engaging children in hazardous labour or street hawking. Residents were encouraged to report cases of child abuse, trafficking, exploitation, or neglect to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency channels.
The police said it will continue to work with the Ministry of Women Affairs and other partners to uphold children’s rights and strengthen measures against exploitation across Anambra State.