Alleged Child Trafficking: Woman Posing as Reverend Sister Arrested With 38 Minors
In a recent development that has shocked the nation, a 40-year-old woman posing as a Reverend Sister was arrested for her alleged involvement in the trafficking of 38 children in Delta State, Nigeria. The arrest was made by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Edo Zonal Command, following a tip-off about the suspect’s activities.
The suspect, identified as Ikejimba Maryvianney, also known as ‘Oluchi’, was apprehended over the alleged trafficking of these children, who were minors. The case has brought to light the disturbing reality of child trafficking under the guise of religious and charitable pretenses. The suspect claimed to be a trained Reverend Sister from Ghana with headquarters in the Philippines, which later turned out to be false.
According to reports, the parents of the children had entrusted them to the suspect at a farm in Enugu-Awka camp Monastery, Ilah, Delta State, under the belief that they would be taken to orphanage homes and provided with better care. On two separate occasions, the suspect was given custody of the children, with the total number reaching 38.
The Zonal Commander of the Edo Command, Barr. Nduka Nwanwenne, stated that 32 of the children have been rescued, while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining six. The suspect’s claims regarding the whereabouts of the missing children have been inconsistent, leading to further investigation.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and due diligence by parents and guardians when entrusting their children to individuals or organizations. It also highlights the commendable work of NAPTIP in combating human trafficking and protecting the vulnerable.
The suspect is currently in custody and will be prosecuted according to the law. Meanwhile, NAPTIP continues its efforts to recover the missing children and apprehend any other individuals involved in this heinous crime.
Child trafficking is a global issue that requires the attention and cooperation of all sectors of society to effectively combat. This case is a call to action for increased awareness, stricter oversight of charitable organizations, and more robust measures to protect children from exploitation.
