The Otolo Nnewi Development Union (ONDU), in collaboration with Agunaechemba Security Outfit, has dismantled an alleged syndicate linked to child trafficking, child labour, and the processing of chemically-preserved animal skin for human consumption in Ndimgbu Otolo and Amiliba Otolo areas.
A statement by the union signed by the President General of ONDU, Hon. Tony Muodielo, and the Secretary General, Amobi Okonkwo, said the operation was conducted on Monday.
According to the statement, the joint operation was carried out on the basis of credible intelligence and reliable information.
It was gathered that personnel from Agunaechemba Security Outfit, Nnewi North Command, and Agunaechemba Otolo Central Unit also participated in the coordinated raids on two locations identified as hubs for the alleged activities.
The statement said the syndicate was allegedly masterminded by Chief Ezekiel Anyigor of Ikwo, Ebonyi State, with Mr Simon, also from Ikwo, named as an accomplice; both are said to be currently at large.
The Union stated that operatives found what is alleged to be donkey skin preserved with harmful chemicals and packaged as “kpomo” for public consumption.
“Several persons, including breastfeeding mothers, minors, and adults, were apprehended during the raid. The rescued minors confessed that they were trafficked from Ebonyi State to Nnewi to hawk the processed meat as far as Igbo-Ukwu in Aguata LGA of Anambra State.
“It was also suspected that the group was involved in the sexual exploitation of underage girls and the disappearance of infants born to them, but we leave that to thorough investigation by the relevant authorities,
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Otolo. Through strengthened partnerships with security agencies and government, we shall not relent in our duty to protect lives and uphold the dignity of our community.
“Residents are urged to report any suspicious or illegal activities to Agunaechemba Security or the ONDU Secretariat for prompt intervention,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, who visited the Agunaechemba Security Office in Otolo Nnewi to ascertain the true state of things, have commended the ONDU and Agunaechemba for what he described as a swift and courageous action to sanitise the community.
Anazodo ordered the immediate sealing of the affected premises in Ndimgbu Otolo and Amiliba Otolo, pending the conclusion of investigations.
He also said all suspects and victims have been transferred to the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Awka, for investigation, victim support, and possible prosecution.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that the State Police Command has received thirty-six persons, aged between 6 and 44 years, including six suspects, from the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs for profiling as part of ongoing efforts to combat child labour, street hawking, human trafficking, and other forms of child exploitation in the State.
He said the individuals, comprising twenty-nine rescued children/young persons and the six suspects, including Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma and Moses Anyingo, were handed over to the Command to facilitate comprehensive profiling, identification, and investigations.
He said, “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.”
