An Anambra State Children, Sexual and Gender-based Violence Offences Court in Awka has remanded a 42-year-old man, Sunday Nome, over allegations of child theft and illegal trafficking involving two young boys.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, child stealing, illegal dealing in children and the alleged sale of children. The court ordered that he be remanded at the Awka Correctional Centre and adjourned the case until July 29 for hearing.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences occurred in February at Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area, where the defendant and another suspect, who is currently at large, allegedly removed two children from their families without consent. Prosecutors further alleged that one of the children was unlawfully sold, while the second was recovered before any alleged transaction could be completed.
The prosecution said the charges were brought under relevant provisions of the Anambra State Criminal Code, Child Rights Law and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition and Protection) Law. The allegations remain before the court, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
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