The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on child trafficking and related crimes, leading to the rescue of abducted children, recovery of infants, and arrest of suspected traffickers in separate operations across Warri and Effurun.

The command’s spokesman, Bright Edafe, disclosed that the police had also launched comprehensive investigations aimed at dismantling criminal syndicates involved in child stealing and illegal child trafficking activities in the state.

Edafe said operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), Warri, on May 10, 2026, at about 9:15 a.m., rescued a two-year-old child suspected to have been abducted and prevented the lynching of a suspect at Igbudu Market in Warri.

According to him, the suspect, identified as Fejiro Obaduemu, 29, of Idesor Street, Isi Layout, Warri, was intercepted by vigilant residents while allegedly carrying the child concealed inside a sack bag, thereby raising suspicion of child theft.

The spokesman explained that before the suspect could be mobbed by the angry crowd, QRS operatives swiftly responded to the scene, rescued both the suspect and the child, and evacuated them to safety.

Police said the suspect sustained injuries during the mob attack and was immediately taken to the Police Clinic in Warri for treatment before being placed in custody for further investigation.

Edafe further disclosed that follow-up investigations conducted on May 11 led to the successful tracing of the child’s parents.

The rescued child was subsequently reunited with the family in the presence of leaders of the Hausa community in Warri.

Preliminary findings, according to the police, revealed that the suspect allegedly confessed to being sent by another unidentified suspect based in Warri to steal the child.

The police spokesman stated that efforts were ongoing to arrest the alleged accomplice and unravel the wider criminal network connected to the crime.

The latest operation, he said, underscores the command’s renewed determination to combat child trafficking, abduction, and other crimes targeting vulnerable children across Delta State.

He therefore also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities involving children to security agencies, noting that community cooperation remained critical in the fight against trafficking and organised criminal activities. (Guardian)

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