The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of 16 children from a residence in an estate in Ozuoba, following an intelligence-led operation. Superintendent of Police, Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, stated that the rescue took place after police acted on a tip-off, leading them to the suspect’s home. The case has now been transferred to the Commissioner of Police Monitoring Unit for a comprehensive investigation. While one person has been arrested, authorities are continuing to investigate to determine whether additional suspects are involved in the case.

The incident brings to light a troubling child trafficking operation, with the arrested woman allegedly involved in trafficking children from various churches and communities. Though her identity has not been revealed, she was arrested by the Ozuoba Police on Saturday after concerned residents alerted authorities. According to eyewitness accounts, the woman had lived in the compound for over two years, with a continuous stream of children entering and leaving her residence. Neighbors had grown suspicious, especially since she frequently brought different children home, claiming they were from churches or other unknown locations.

One resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, noted that the woman had been heard beating a mortar at night, possibly preparing food for the large number of children under her care. The resident estimated that nearly 200 children had passed through her home over the two-year period. The police believe the woman is involved in a broader child trafficking operation, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the crime.