The Anambra State Police Command has arrested 32-year-old Joshua Simeon for allegedly abducting a five-year-old girl at Nkpor Central Park, Idemili North Local Government Area. The suspect, a native of Ohaozara in Ebonyi State, was caught while attempting to flee with the child after forcibly taking her away from her parents in Umuota Village, Obosi.

The police operatives attached to the Ogidi Area Command acted on credible intelligence to apprehend the suspect on Saturday, February 1, 2025. The quick response by law enforcement led to the child’s rescue and the suspect’s detention before he could disappear to an unknown destination.

How the Incident Unfolded

According to the police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the abduction took place in broad daylight, raising concerns about the growing menace of child trafficking in the region. The suspect was already in a commercial vehicle preparing to leave the area when police officers intercepted him at Nkpor Central Park.

“Police operatives attached to the Ogidi Area Command, acting on credible information, arrested one Joshua Simeon, a 32-year-old male from Ohaozara, Ebonyi State, at the Nkpor Central Park, Idemili North Local Government Area,” Ikenga said in a statement.

“The team also recovered a five-year-old girl, Nkemdilim Jacob, allegedly taken away by the suspect from her parents living in Umuota Village, Obosi. The suspect had already boarded a commercial vehicle and was en route to an unknown destination when he was arrested.”

 

Suspect Undergoing Investigation

The suspect is currently in police custody and undergoing intense interrogation. Authorities are working to determine whether this case is an isolated incident or part of a larger child trafficking syndicate operating in the area.

The police command is also making efforts to locate the child’s parents and facilitate her safe return. The authorities have assured the public of their commitment to safeguarding children and combating all forms of child abduction and trafficking.

“Efforts are ongoing to reach out to the parents or relatives of the recovered child for possible reunion,” Ikenga added.

 

Growing Concerns Over Child Abduction in Anambra

Child abduction and trafficking have become serious concerns in Anambra State and across Nigeria. In recent years, reports of missing children have increased, with many cases linked to human trafficking rings. The arrest of Joshua Simeon underscores the urgent need for vigilance among parents and communities to protect children from abductors.

Security experts have urged authorities to intensify efforts to dismantle human trafficking networks that target vulnerable children. The police have also advised parents to educate their children on safety measures and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest law enforcement agency.

Community Reactions and Police Warnings

Residents of Idemili North have expressed shock over the incident, emphasizing the need for increased security measures in public spaces, including parks, schools, and marketplaces.

A local trader at Nkpor Central Park, identified as Mrs. Chinelo, described the incident as alarming.

“We are no longer safe. If someone can boldly steal a child in broad daylight at a busy park, then we need to be very careful. Parents should be more vigilant, and authorities should deploy security personnel in public places,” she said.

The Anambra State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to combating child trafficking and ensuring that perpetrators face the full wrath of the law. The police have urged residents to report any suspicious activities related to child abduction to the nearest station or via emergency hotlines.

Conclusion

The swift intervention by law enforcement saved five-year-old Nkemdilim Jacob from what could have been a tragic fate. While the suspect is in custody, investigations will continue to uncover any broader criminal networks he may be linked to.

The Anambra State government, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders must work together to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of children. Parents and guardians must also remain alert and cautious about their children’s whereabouts to prevent such occurrences in the future.