From Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The Benue state police command has invaded and arrested a syndicate of child traffickers in the state operating around Makurdi and environs.
A press release signed by SP Anene Sewuese Catherine said, “a crack unit of detectives from the state police command closed in on the syndicate Wednesday following information about its sustained activities”.
The syndicate, the release pointed out, “has been carrying out child trafficking operating around Internally Displaced Persons camp at Northbank and other parts of Makurdi”.
According to the State Police Spokesperson, “surveillance was intensified in these area and the following persons were arrested in connection with the offence;
Member Friday, the Kingpin’s wife and accomplice, Stephen Terungwa, Sughter Akegh and Atom Gideon. The kingpin one Friday escaped to an unknown destination”.
The release added that, ” the suspected traffickers confessed to have engaged in recruiting pregnant girls who gave birth and handed over the new born children to the kingpin, one Friday, who is on the run. These mothers were paid one hundred and fifty thousand naira for each pregnancy that was delivered”,
SP Anene said, “One child that was earlier reported missing by his parents at Daudu police Division was also rescued from the house of the said kingpin”.
The Police advised members of the Benue public to ensure that their children are in safe places at all times especially now that they are on holidays.
