Tension gripped the Ogwashi‑Uku community in Aniocha South Local Government Area on Sunday after four children disappeared, allegedly lured away by three women believed to be child traffickers. Neighbours discovered the children missing from their homes in the Umuokwe quarters and raised the alarm when the women’s room—recently rented on an emergency basis—stood empty.
“Three days after they moved in, the children went out to fetch biscuits from a nearby shop with these women and never returned,” said a local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “By the time neighbours went to check on the women’s apartment, both the adults and the children were gone.”
Among those abducted are siblings Ebube and Miracle, whose distraught parents joined neighbours in frantic searches. The landlord, whose quick rental of the flat aroused suspicion, was arrested by the Delta State Police Command shortly after the incident.
Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe confirmed the abductions and the landlady’s detention. “She provided no identification, contact details or rental agreement. Her conduct was suspicious, and she is now in custody as we pursue all leads,” he said.
Edafe urged residents to remain vigilant and report any information to the police hotlines. “Our investigation is ongoing. We are exploring CCTV footage, interviewing witnesses and coordinating with neighbouring jurisdictions to recover the children and apprehend all involved,” he added.
Child trafficking remains a persistent challenge in parts of southern Nigeria, with traffickers often exploiting poverty and lax tenancy checks. Human rights advocates have called for stricter vetting of short‑term tenants and greater community‑level awareness campaigns to prevent similar tragedies.
The Ogwashi‑Uku Traditional Council appealed for calm amid growing fear. “Our priority is the safe return of the children,” said Chief Emmanuel Umeadi. “We are working with security agencies and community groups to support affected families and ensure no stone is left unturned.”
As night falls on Ogwashi‑Uku, homes are shuttered earlier and patrols intensified. Friends and neighbours keep watch, hoping that quick police action will bring the children home before further harm befalls them. The Delta State Command says it will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
