Anambra State Police have rescued a pregnant 15-year-old girl and arrested a suspect over alleged child exploitation and sexual abuse following a raid in Awka North Local Government Area

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command rescued a heavily pregnant 15-year-old girl and arrested a suspect during a raid on a suspected criminal hideout near St. Paul’s Secondary School in Achalla, Awka North Local Government Area.

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The breakthrough operation, carried out on 17 June, followed credible intelligence about youths allegedly involved in the use of crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as “Mkpuru Mmiri”.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that one Tochukwu Nwora was arrested on suspicion of child exploitation and sexual abuse.

The teenager was immediately taken into protective custody and moved to the Police Hospital in Awka for medical evaluation and care.

Preliminary investigations suggest the vulnerable girl had been subjected to repeated sexual abuse by several adult males in Nando (Anambra East LGA), Nteje (Oyi LGA), and Achalla. Police believe some of the men took advantage of her situation by offering small amounts of money.

SP Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a thorough probe. The investigation will also examine whether any parent or guardian was negligent or complicit.

“The Command condemns all forms of child abuse, exploitation and violence against minors,” the police spokesperson stated. “We remain committed to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring justice for victims.”

Efforts are continuing to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the alleged exploitation, while the arrested suspect is cooperating with investigators.

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This Anambra pregnant teen rescue has drawn attention to the growing challenge of child exploitation in parts of the state, with authorities promising a decisive response to safeguard minors.