Police detain 36 over alleged child labour, street hawking in Anambra

Anambra State in Nigeria has made a significant stride in combating child exploitation after authorities dismantled a suspected child trafficking ring and arrested six individuals. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, resulted in the rescue of 29 children and young persons who were reportedly subjected to labor, street hawking, and other exploitative practices. The arrested suspects, identified as Anyingo Glory, Nwafor Godwin, Chukwudi Ofoke, Chinenye Anyingo, Okwudili Ifeoma, and Moses Anyingo, were apprehended during a raid in Nnewi, a city located in the central part of the state. These individuals are now under police custody for further profiling, identification, and investigation.

The operation took place on June 29, 2026, when the Anambra State Police Command received 35 individuals ranging in age from six to 44 years. This group included both the rescued children and the six suspects. According to the police, these individuals were handed over by the Ministry of Women Affairs for detailed profiling and investigation. The primary objective of this initiative was to identify the circumstances surrounding the exploitation of the children, determine the roles played by each suspect, and facilitate the potential reunification of the victims with their families and respective states of origin. This effort involves close coordination with various government agencies and child protection organizations to ensure the welfare of the affected children.

The Anambra State Police Command has consistently emphasized its dedication to protecting children and other vulnerable groups from all forms of abuse and exploitation. In a recent statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, highlighted the dangers posed by child labor and street hawking, which can lead to severe consequences such as trafficking, abuse, and neglect. He assured the public that any individual found responsible for such acts would face thorough investigation and prosecution according to the law. The police have also called upon parents, guardians, and the general public to avoid involving children in dangerous labor or exposing them to the risks associated with street hawking.

The operation underscores the broader challenges faced by Anambra State in addressing child exploitation. Despite previous efforts to curb such issues, the presence of organized networks engaged in exploiting children indicates the need for sustained vigilance and collaborative action among law enforcement and social services. The police have reiterated their commitment to working alongside the Ministry of Women Affairs and other relevant stakeholders to safeguard the rights of children, provide justice for victims, and implement stronger preventive measures against child exploitation within the state.

The response from local authorities reflects a growing awareness of the severity of child exploitation and the necessity of multi-agency cooperation to address it effectively. As the investigation continues, more details about the operations and the backgrounds of the suspects are expected to emerge. The police have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of child abuse, trafficking, or exploitation promptly. With the recent arrests and the ongoing profiling process, there is hope that this operation will serve as a deterrent to future exploitation and contribute to a safer environment for children in Anambra State.