SASA child trafficking arrest in Anambra sees suspect detained as two children rescued in major intelligence-led operation
The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) has arrested a 42-year-old man, Sunday Nomen, over alleged involvement in a child trafficking syndicate operating across state lines.
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The suspect, who reportedly hails from Abakaliki in Ebonyi State, was apprehended in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, following an intelligence-led operation carried out on Sunday.
Confirming the arrest during a parade at the SASA headquarters in Onitsha on Monday, spokesperson Karen James said the suspect belongs to a wider inter-state trafficking network allegedly involved in the buying and selling of children.
According to Karen James, the syndicate targets vulnerable minors, reportedly trafficking children from as young as six months old for illegal transactions.
Operatives also rescued two children, aged three and eight, during the operation, which the agency described as swift and intelligence-driven.
The SASA child trafficking arrest Anambra operation reportedly began when undercover operatives posed as potential buyers, leading to negotiations that resulted in the suspect’s immediate arrest.
Karen James further disclosed that Sunday Nomen allegedly confessed to purchasing the children for ₦3.5 million and was en route to meet an accomplice identified as Mrs Uju, believed to be part of the trafficking ring.
The children were reportedly found temporarily lodged in a hotel in Nkpor while arrangements were being made for their transfer.
Authorities say the rescued victims are now in protective custody as investigations continue to uncover other members of the suspected syndicate.
Karen James praised the operation as a demonstration of SASA’s commitment to tackling organised crime and safeguarding vulnerable residents across Anambra State.
The suspect is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for further interrogation and prosecution.
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Security officials say efforts are ongoing to dismantle the wider network linked to the case as investigations deepen.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
