The Cross River State Police Command has arrested Idongesit Akpan and his wife, Angela, for their alleged involvement in child stealing and trafficking. The couple, along with other suspects linked to various crimes in the state, was paraded on Friday.
Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner of Police, Gyogon Grimah, revealed that the couple lured their Facebook acquaintance, Ms. Blessing Godday, from Obubra to Akamkpa under the guise of offering her a job.
"Following their promise of a job, she traveled to Akamkpa with her two sons, aged five and three, on December 6. Upon arrival, she was taken with her children to Aba in Abia State, where she was separated from them," Grimah said.
When Godday realized her children were missing, she returned to Akamkpa, located the suspects' residence, and reported them to the police.
During the investigation, it was uncovered that the couple had been involved in child stealing and trafficking. Grimah disclosed that the couple had previously sold a six-year-old child for ₦800,000 and had planned to sell Godday's children for ₦2.4 million.
"Child stealing and trafficking are crimes against humanity and must not be condoned in any society," the Commissioner stated emphatically.
Police Record for the Year
Grimah also highlighted the police command's efforts during the year, stating that they had:
- Charged 399 cases to court,
- Successfully prosecuted 19, with 15 convictions,
- Recorded four discharged but not acquitted cases, and
- Transmitted 48 cases to the Directorate of Public Prosecution for advice.
Speaking to journalists, Idongesit Akpan admitted to luring Ms. Godday with the intention of selling her children but claimed it was their first time committing such a crime.
“We do not even know how much we would have been given for the sale of the children. We truly regret our actions now,” he said.
The Police Commissioner reiterated the command's commitment to tackling crimes against children and ensuring justice is served. The case serves as a grim reminder of the pervasive threat of child trafficking and the need for vigilance among citizens.
