The Anambra State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old pregnant girl and arrested a suspect in connection with alleged child exploitation and sexual abuse in the state.
The victim was rescued during a police operation near St. Paul’s Secondary School, Achalla, in Awka North Local Government Area.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed this in a statement on Friday.
Ikenga said one Tochukwu Nwora was arrested during the operation.
According to him, the raid was carried out by officers from the Achalla Divisional Police Headquarters after intelligence reports about youths allegedly using crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as “Mkpuru Mmiri.”
He said the operation, which took place on June 17, 2026, led to the discovery and rescue of the teenager in a vulnerable condition.
“During the raid, the team rescued a 15-year-old girl who is heavily pregnant and arrested one Tochukwu Nwora over alleged child exploitation and sexual abuse,” Ikenga stated.
He added that early findings showed the victim had allegedly been abused by several adult men at different times in Nando in Anambra East Local Government Area, Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area, and Achalla in Awka North Local Government Area.
Police said investigators believe some of the suspects took advantage of the teenager’s vulnerable state by giving her small amounts of money.
The girl has been placed in protective custody and taken to the Police Hospital in Awka for medical checks and proper care.
Ikenga said Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, had ordered that the case be moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a full investigation.
He also said the inquiry would determine whether any parent or guardian was negligent or involved in the circumstances of the case.
“The Command condemns all forms of child abuse, exploitation and violence against minors and reassures the public of its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring justice for victims,” the statement read.
Police said efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest others linked to the alleged abuse, while the arrested suspect is helping investigators with useful information.
The command promised to provide further updates as the investigation continues.