Investigations revealed possible links to a larger trafficking network, and more arrests are expected. Efforts are underway to identify the child’s biological parents
The Imo State Police Officers have declined a bribe offer of one million Nigerian naira, despite the fact that they had detained two individuals in connection with two distinct incidences of child trafficking.
32-year-old woman named Confidence Odoh, who resides in Umuanyo Eziobodo, Owerri West Local Government Area, was taken into custody by agents of the State Criminal Investigation Department on February 4, 2025.
This information was disclosed in a press statement that was issued on Thursday by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Henry Okoye, who serves as the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command.
According to DSO Okoye, the Confidence Odoh was arrested for allegedly kidnapping the three-year-old son of her former neighbor, Nzubechi Udodiri, on February 1, 2025, while the child was playing right on their premises.
Okoye stated, “On February 4, 2025, detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department arrested a 32-year-old woman, Confidence Odoh, of Umuanyo Eziobodo, Owerri West LGA, for abducting her ex-neighbor’s three-year-old son, Nzubechi Udodiri, on February 1, 2025.
“Investigations revealed she stole the child while he was playing in the compound where he resides. The child was rescued and reunited with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Udodiri Michael, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend possible accomplices.
Revealing the second case, Okoye stated, “In a separate development on February 21, 2025, operatives of the Safer Highway Unit, while conducting a robust stop and search along the Owerri-Aba express road, apprehended Eze Chika of Obiokwara Umualoma, Ideato North LGA, found with a suspected stolen four-year-old child.
“Initially, she claimed the child was hers but later admitted to purchasing the child from a suspected trafficking syndicate in Aba for N1.8m.
“In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, the suspect offered the officers a N1m bribe, which was rejected outright.
“The officers proceeded with the lawful arrest and ensured the safe rescue of the child. Further investigations revealed possible links to a larger trafficking network, and more arrests are expected. Efforts are underway to identify the child’s biological parents.”