Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have thwarted a suspected child abduction operation, rescued three children unharmed, and arrested two suspects in a swift security operation in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
The breakthrough, described as a major success in the Command’s fight against child trafficking and related crimes, followed a distress call from a concerned resident who reported the abduction of three children from Ikot Ekpaw Village on the evening of June 3, 2026.
Acting on the intelligence, police detectives immediately launched a coordinated rescue mission, sealing off strategic entry and exit routes across the area in a bid to prevent the suspects from escaping with the victims.
The operation paid off when security operatives intercepted a mini bus with Registration Number 830 PH during an intensive search.
A thorough inspection of the vehicle led to the shocking discovery of the three missing children hidden inside the bus.
The children were rescued safely and unharmed, while two suspects believed to be behind the abduction were arrested on the spot.
Police identified the suspects as Emmanuel Johnny, 39, from Ikot Itokpo Village in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area but resident in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and Ifiok Umoh, 28, from Ikot Ikpene Village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
The rescued children were subsequently reunited with their relieved families, bringing an end to what could have become a tragic ordeal.
The suspects are currently in police custody as investigators work to unravel the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction and determine whether a wider trafficking network was involved.
Commending the professionalism of the operatives, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, praised the swift response that led to the successful rescue and arrest.
He also acknowledged the vigilance of community members whose timely information played a critical role in the operation.
The police chief has directed a thorough and discreet investigation into the case, with a mandate to identify and apprehend any other individuals linked to the suspected criminal syndicate.
Reaffirming the Command’s resolve to tackle child trafficking, abduction, and other crimes, Azare assured residents that security agencies would continue to pursue offenders and safeguard vulnerable members of society.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that information provided to the police would be treated with strict confidentiality.
The latest rescue operation underscores the growing collaboration between security agencies and local communities in combating crime and protecting children across Akwa Ibom State.
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