Adamawa Police Arrest 567, Rescue 13 Trafficked Children and 4 Kidnap Victims in Second Quarter Operations

YOLA —By Ojoma Yusuf, Yola

The Adamawa State Police Command has recorded major successes in its fight against crime, announcing the arrest of 567 suspects and the rescue of 13 trafficked children and four kidnapped victims between April and June 2025.

Commissioner of Police, Dankombo Morris, disclosed the development during a press briefing held at the Command Headquarters in Yola.

He said the suspects were apprehended for various serious offences, including kidnapping, armed robbery, rape, child trafficking, culpable homicide, and criminal activities linked to the notorious “Shilla” gang, which has been terrorizing urban centres in the state.

CP Morris described the rescue of thirteen trafficked children as one of the Command’s major breakthroughs during the period under review. He explained that the victims were stolen in Adamawa and trafficked to Anambra State, where they were sold to unsuspecting individuals.

“The children were traced and recovered following a diligent and intelligence-led investigation carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping and Crack Squad, under the leadership of ACP Shuaibu Wara, with support from other tactical and intelligence units,” he stated.

Two women, identified as Mrs. Ngozi Abdulwahab, 43, of Jambutu in Yola North LGA, and Mrs. Uche Okoye, 55, of Kabiku in Nnewi, Anambra State, were arrested in connection with the trafficking ring. The Commissioner said the suspects are believed to be behind multiple child-stealing and trafficking cases across several states.

“All suspects will face the full weight of the law. This case serves as a disturbing reminder of the persistent threat posed by human trafficking,” CP Morris warned.

He further confirmed the successful rescue of four kidnap victims during the same period, attributing the achievements to increased community collaboration and actionable intelligence provided by the public.

The Commissioner commended the residents of Adamawa State for their cooperation and lauded Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his unwavering support to the police.

“Our success underscores the importance of community-police partnership in tackling crime,” he said.

He added that the rescued children are currently in safe custody and will be reunited with their families once verification and identification processes are completed.