The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully intercepted a suspected child trafficking operation, rescuing 59 male children aged between 4 and 12 years.
This was announced by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, during a press briefing held on Monday, January 8, 2025.
The interception occurred on January 6, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m. along the Abuja-Kano route. A white Peugeot 15-seater bus, with registration number KMC 283 ZJ, was stopped by a patrol team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sarki Umar.
The vehicle, driven by Ali Ibrahim, a Kano State resident, was accompanied by Al Hassan Ibrahim, also of Kano State.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children, reportedly from different families, were being transported under questionable circumstances by one Idris Usman, a resident of Nasarawa State. Usman allegedly traveled to Kano State to gather the children with the intent of taking them to Nasarawa State for “training.”
However, there was no documentation or parental consent for the minors’ movement, raising concerns of child abuse and trafficking.
“The suspects, the vehicle, and the children are currently in custody while a thorough investigation is ongoing,” CP Disu stated.
He further disclosed that the Command is collaborating with the FCT Social Development Secretariat (SDS) to ensure the safe reunification of the children with their families and to prosecute those responsible for the crime.
The Commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable groups, especially children, from exploitation and abuse in accordance with the Child’s Right Act of 2003.
He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their children.
This interception underscores the FCT Police Command’s resolve to combat criminal activities and protect the rights of children within the territory. Investigations into the case are expected to reveal more details in the coming days.
LV