Anambra: Ministry Rescues 29, Arrests 6 in Nnewi Child Exploitation Raid
Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has rescued 29 children and vulnerable persons and arrested six suspects in an anti-child exploitation operation carried out this morning at Otolo, Nnewi North Local Government Area.
The victims, aged between six and 44 years, were recovered during ongoing state-wide efforts to curb child trafficking, street hawking, child labour, and other forms of child abuse across the state.
The six suspects, who are in custody, are alleged to have been directly involved in exploiting the victims. The operation was carried out with the support of the Mayor of Nnewi North LGA, whose collaboration was key to its success.
In a statement, the Ministry expressed concern over a recurring pattern of child abuse cases linked to persons from Ebonyi State. It has therefore called on the Ebonyi State Government to urgently caution its citizens and take steps to address the trend.
“The Ministry will not fold its hands while children are exploited, trafficked, or abused in Anambra State,” said the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Chinyere Esther Onyekesi.
“We are grateful to the Mayor of Nnewi North for his prompt cooperation, which ensured the success of today’s operation. I also urge the Ebonyi State Government to act decisively. The rising number of cases linked to their citizens is a serious concern. Our children deserve protection, and we will continue to act with urgency and firmness,” she added.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting every child and vulnerable person in the state and vowed to continue pursuing all forms of child exploitation with the full weight of the law.
