Police rescue 23 children from trafficking syndicate, arrest suspects — News — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

In a major breakthrough in the fight against child trafficking and missing persons, the FCT Police Command has successfully rescued 23 children from a suspected child trafficking syndicate operating under the guise of an orphanage in Kubwa, Abuja.

On March 20, 2025, at around 12:05 PM, following credible intelligence on suspicious activities at Mother Deborah Orphanage, police operatives from Kubwa Division swiftly stormed the location.

The operation led to the rescue of a three-year-old child, suspected to have been stolen from Kaduna State. Two suspects, including the orphanage owner, Ijeoma Andy, were arrested while efforts were ongoing to track down other accomplices.

According to FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, further investigations uncovered a shocking discovery of 22 additional children, aged between 2 and 14 years (14 females and 8 males), believed to be victims of child trafficking.

“When interrogated, Ijeoma Andy failed to provide a reasonable account of the children’s origins or how they ended up in her facility. The 22 rescued children have since been taken into protective care, where they are receiving the necessary attention,” Adeh said.

“The FCT Police Command assures residents that the Command will stop at nothing to dismantle criminal networks preying on innocent children and persons.

“The FCT Police Command calls on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the Police.”