The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully disrupted an alleged child trafficking operation in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, rescuing three abducted children and apprehending two suspects during a coordinated security response.
The suspects, Emmanuel Johnny of Ikot Etobo in Nsit Ubium LGA and Ifiok Umoh of Ikot Ikpene in Oruk Anam LGA, were intercepted along the Ekparakwa-Uyo route as they attempted to move the victims out of the area.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the operation followed a distress call received on June 3, 2026, which prompted immediate mobilisation of operatives and the blocking of key escape routes.
“On 3rd June, 2026, at about 1900hrs, Operatives of the Command received a distress call through a concerned individual, reporting the abduction of three children in Mkpat Enin local government area but were intercepted along Ekparakwa-Uyo road as the suspects escaped with the children to their destination.”
“Upon receipt of the report, detectives were immediately mobilised and all strategic entry and exit routes within the area were swiftly cordoned off in a coordinated operation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the perpetrators.”
Acting on intelligence and local support, officers intercepted a minibus with registration number 830 PH, where the children were found during a search of the vehicle.
“A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of the three missing children inside the bus. The children were rescued unharmed, while two suspects were arrested on the spot.”
Authorities confirmed that the children have been safely reunited with their families, while the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the swift intervention of officers and praised residents whose timely information aided the operation.
He further ordered a detailed investigation to uncover and apprehend other members of the suspected trafficking network, urging the public to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies.
