By Ovat Abeng
Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Gender Section have successfully rescued two missing children, Sunday Aliya (14 years) and Ebenezer Emmanuel (12 years), after nine months of intensive and intelligence-led investigation that extended across several States of the Federation.
The Case according to the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this in a statement in Awka on Wednesday, was first reported at Fegge Police Station on 18th January 2025 revealing that the guardian of the victims sent the two boys to fetch water at a nearby borehole, but they failed to return home. Following the initial investigation, the Case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for further action.
The Operatives acting on credible intelligence, traced and arrested one Yusuf in Katsina State. During interrogation, the suspect provided valuable leads which guided the operatives to Umunede, Delta State, where one of the victims, Sunday Aliya, was rescued. Further investigation led to the recovery of the second victim, Ebenezer Emmanuel, in Benin City, Edo State.
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The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, while commending the operatives for their perseverance and professionalism, reiterated the Command’s resolve to follow every lead in any Case, no matter how long it takes, to ensure that justice is served. He also appreciated the cooperation of residents whose information contributed to the success of the rescue operation and urged the public to continue to support the Police with information for a better result.
Meanwhile, the Command has contacted the parents of the rescued children, who reside in Ilorin, Kwara State, and arrangements are ongoing for their formal reunification.
