33 Underage Girls Rescued as Anambra Police Bust Trafficking Network

The Anambra State Police Command has uncovered an alleged child trafficking operation in Aguleri, rescuing 33 underage girls and arresting one female suspect.

According to the police, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, carried out the operation on January 7, 2026, following a distress report received through the Command Control Room. The report came from relatives of three missing girls who had been abducted from Ebonyi State on September 26, 2025.

The missing girls—Divine Mbam (14), Nwagu Favour (15), and Oke Blessing (18)—were reportedly sighted at a residence on Emma Pigin Road, Aguleri. Acting on the information, police operatives raided the location and rescued a total of 33 underage girls.

During the operation, the police arrested a 37-year-old woman identified as Ifeoma Success Anthony. Preliminary investigations indicate that the building where the girls were found is allegedly used for child trafficking and prostitution.

The property is said to be owned by Mrs. Ngozi Nnanyelugo, aged 45, who is currently on the run. Police say efforts are ongoing to arrest her and other suspected accomplices, while investigations continue to determine the full scope of the operation.

The Anambra State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable children and has called on members of the public to provide credible information to support ongoing investigations.