The Rivers State Police Command has rescued four children and arrested a female member of a child trafficking syndicate, Esther Anthony of Rumukwachi Community Port Harcourt, who allegedly stole the children.
The children, aged one to 13 years, were lodged at Alaeze Guest House in Rumukwachi, Port Harcourt and were intended to be handed over to a nurse named Loveth, who runs a maternity home.
This was contained in a press release, on Monday, by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko.
The Guest House Managing Director was said to have grew suspicious of Esther Anthony‘s activities and refused to let her check out with the children, demanding that the mother be present.
The suspect, Esther Anthony, left and allegedly returned with police officers, falsely claiming that the Guest House Manager had abducted the children and threatened her with a gun.
However, the Managing Director of the Guest House contacted the Choba Area Command and officers arrived to arrest Anthony.
“Preliminary Investigations revealed that Esther Anthony had conspired with someone named Favour to traffick the children from the Swali Community in Bayelsa State.
“Another suspect, Purity Silas, was also arrested in connection with the case.
“Notably, Esther Anthony was identified by another family as the same person who had stolen three of their children in the Rumuodara area of Port Harcourt and sold them to Loveth.
“All suspects have confessed to the crime. The case has been transferred to State CID, Port-Harcourt and suspects are currently in police custody.
“They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
“This case highlights the ongoing efforts of the Rivers State Police Command to combat child trafficking and ensure justice for victims and their families.
“Meanwhile the children have united with their family members,” it was stated in the press release.
Rivers CP Rewards 2 Officers
In another development, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala, has commended and rewarded two officers of the state Police Command for their exceptional performances.
The Rivers State Police boss presented awards to the officers at a commendation ceremony held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Port Harcourt last Thursday.
As stated in a separate release, on Monday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the officers were rewarded for demonstrating outstanding dedication and professionalism in the line of duty.
Among the honorees were CSP Julian Wealth Igbudu, Commander of the C4i Strike Force and Inspector Blessing Ozii, attached to the Abali Police Division.
“Both officers received accolades for their exemplary contributions toward enhancing security in Rivers State,’ it was stated in the release.
“CSP Julian Igbudu was honoured for his remarkable leadership in the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, which also resulted in the recovery of two serviceable pistols and 30 rounds of ammunition.
“His swift and effective action demonstrated tactical excellence and contributed significantly to maintaining peace and order in the state.
“Inspector Blessing Ozii was recognised for her exceptional intelligence and diligence, which led to the apprehension of a notorious kidnap kingpin, Idris Abdullahi.
“Her efforts not only dismantled a dangerous criminal operation but also resulted in the recovery of ₦2.5 million.
“For her outstanding performance, she received the Commissioner’s Commendation Award and a monetary reward as a token of appreciation,” it was added.
The ceremony was graced by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Finance and Administration), DCP Samuel Erale Etaifo, Assistant Commissioners of Police, Divisional Police Officers (DPO), Tactical Team Commanders and HODs within the Command.
In his remarks, CP Bala restated the importance of recognising the contributions of diligent officers, stating that the reward system was designed to encourage excellence and boost the morale of personnel across the Command.
“This recognition underscores our commitment to supporting and empowering officers who go above and beyond in fulfilling their responsibilities. By rewarding exceptional service, we aim to inspire others within the command to strive for excellence,” CP Bala stated.
“The Rivers State Police Command continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering a secure environment through the hard work and professionalism of its officers.
“The recognition of CSP Igbudu and Inspector Ozii serves as a testament to the impact of effective policing and the importance of rewarding exceptional service,” it was added in the release.
