By Odita Sunday
The Anambra State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old pregnant girl and arrested a suspect in connection with alleged child exploitation during a raid carried out in Achalla, Awka.
According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer of the command, operatives attached to the Achalla Divisional Police Headquarters conducted the operation on June 17, 2026, following intelligence reports concerning the activities of individuals allegedly linked to substance abuse around the St. Paul’s Secondary School area of Achalla.
Ikenga said the operation led to the rescue of the teenager and the arrest of one Tochukwu Nwora, who is currently assisting investigators.
He explained that the victim was immediately taken into protective custody and subsequently transferred to the Police Hospital, Awka, where medical evaluation and other necessary support procedures commenced.
According to the police spokesperson, preliminary findings suggest that the minor may have been subjected to exploitation by multiple individuals across different communities, prompting a broader investigation by the command.
He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation.
”The Commissioner of Police has ordered an expanded investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case, including determining whether any parent or guardian may have been negligent or complicit, and to ensure that all persons found culpable are brought to justice,” Ikenga stated.
The command condemned all forms of child abuse, exploitation and violence against minors, reiterating its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring justice for victims.
Ikenga added that investigations are ongoing and that further updates would be provided as more facts emerge from the case.
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