Policemen
Police Bust Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue 59 Minors on Abuja-Kano Highway
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismantled a suspected child trafficking syndicate and rescued 59 children, aged between 4 and 12 years, who were being transported across the country.
The rescue operation was conducted by the Patrol and Guard Unit along the Abuja-Kano highway, where officers, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sarki Umar, intercepted a white Peugeot 15-seater bus with registration number KMC 283 ZJ.
The vehicle was driven by Idris Usman from Kano State, accompanied by Alhassan Ibrahim.
Addressing the media in Abuja, FCT Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu revealed that preliminary investigations indicated the children were from various families and were being moved without proper documentation or parental consent.
“This case has been classified as suspected child abuse and trafficking. The suspects, vehicle, and rescued children are currently in custody as a comprehensive investigation continues,” Disu stated.
The FCT Police Command is collaborating with the Social Development Secretariat (SDS) to ensure the children are safely reunited with their families. The commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable groups, particularly children, as mandated by the 2003 Child’s Rights Act.
During the parade of the suspects at police headquarters, Usman claimed he operates an Islamic school in Nasarawa State and had traveled to Kano State to bring the children for training.
Disu urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of their children.