By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has foiled a suspected child trafficking operation and rescued three abducted children in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, arresting two suspects during a coordinated operation.
The suspects, identified as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Ikot Itokpo Village in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Ikot Ikpene Village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area, were arrested while allegedly attempting to transport the children to an unknown destination.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Thursday, said the rescue followed a distress call received on June 3, 2026, reporting the abduction of three children in Mkpat Enin.
According to her, vigilant youths in the Ekparakwa community acted on a tip-off and mounted a roadblock along the Ekparakwa-Uyo Road, helping security operatives track the suspects.
“Upon receipt of the report, detectives were immediately mobilised and all strategic entry and exit routes within the area were swiftly cordoned off in a coordinated operation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the perpetrators,” she said.
During the operation, police intercepted a minibus with registration number 830 PH. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three missing children inside the bus.
“The children were rescued unharmed, while two suspects were arrested on the spot,” the police spokesperson stated.
The rescued children have since been reunited with their families, while the suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.
Akwa Ibom Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the swift response of officers and the vigilance of community members whose timely information aided the successful rescue.
He also ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected trafficking syndicate for prosecution.
The police command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that all useful information would be treated with utmost confidentiality.
