State govt says operation targets child trafficking and forced labour networks_
The Anambra State Government has rescued 29 children from alleged exploitation and arrested six suspects in a coordinated operation targeting child trafficking and forced labour.
According to officials, the children were allegedly being held under conditions linked to exploitation, including forced labour and other forms of abuse. They have since been taken into protective custody for medical assessment, counselling, and rehabilitation.
The six suspects arrested are currently assisting security agencies with investigations. Authorities say they will be charged to court on conclusion of the probe.
A statement from the state government described the operation as part of its ongoing crackdown on child trafficking, illegal adoption rings, and exploitation networks operating across the state.
“We will not tolerate any form of exploitation of children in Anambra,” a government spokesperson said. “Those behind these acts will face the full weight of the law, while rescued children will be reunited with their families safely after proper profiling.”
The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, working with security agencies and child protection stakeholders, is said to be handling the aftercare process for the rescued children.
The government also urged residents to report suspicious activities involving minors to the appropriate authorities.
