The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old woman, Ibekwe Nkiru, in connection with a suspected transnational human trafficking ring linked to prostitution, rescuing a 20-year-old female victim in the process.
The police disclosed the operation in a statement on Wednesday night. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the arrest and rescue took place on January 16, 2026, at Igbo-Eze South, following “swift action on credible intelligence.”
Investigations indicate that the victim, a native of Abia State, was allegedly persuaded to resign from her job in Aba with the promise of a higher-paying opportunity in Senegal. The job, police said, was later revealed to be connected to prostitution.
Authorities reported that on the same day, the suspect reportedly took the victim to a shrine in Alor-Agu Community, Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area. The visit, allegedly directed by other syndicate members still at large, was intended for the victim to swear an oath of allegiance before being trafficked abroad.
Upon receiving the tip-off around 8:00 p.m., the Divisional Police Officer led a team to the location, arresting the suspect and rescuing the victim. The young woman has been debriefed and reunited with her family.
Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to lead the case, ensuring all members of the trafficking network are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. The commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and urged the public to provide timely and credible information to help prevent crime.
The police assured residents of their resolve to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable.