By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anambra State Police Command on Monday, June 29, 2026 received 29 rescued children and young adults including 6 suspects, from the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs for profiling.

A breakdown of the persons handed over to the police include persons between 6 and 44 years old,

According to a statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the measure is part of the ongoing efforts to combat child labour, street hawking, human trafficking, and other forms of child exploitation in the state.

The six suspects which include, Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma and Moses Anyingo who were arrested in Nnewi, were allegedly linked to the exploitation of the children.

The statement partly reads: “The suspects have been handed over to the Command to facilitate comprehensive profiling, identification, investigations and possible reunification of the children with their families.

“The exercise is aimed at establishing their identities, determining the circumstances surrounding their involvement, and ensuring the possible reunification of the victims with their families and respective states of origin where necessary, in collaboration with relevant government agencies and child protection stakeholders.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons from all forms of abuse and exploitation.

He emphasised that child labour and street hawking expose children to serious risks, including trafficking, abuse, neglect, and other criminal activities.

He assured the public that anyone found culpable will be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Command further urged parents, guardians, and members of the public to refrain from engaging children in hazardous labour or exposing them to the dangers associated with street hawking.

While encouraging residents to report cases of child abuse, trafficking, exploitation, or neglect to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency channels, the Anambra State Police Command expressed its commitment in collaborating with the Ministry of Women Affairs and other relevant stakeholders to protect the rights of children, ensure justice for victims, and strengthen measures against child exploitation across the state.

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