NIGERIA: 59 Trafficked Children Rescued by FCT Police, Suspects In Custody

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, has intercepted a 15-seater white Peugeot bus transporting 59 children suspected to be victims of trafficking.

The children, aged four to 12, were rescued during a routine security operation along the Abuja-Kano route.

Addressing the press in Abuja on Wednesday, FCT Commissioner Police Tunji Disu said the preliminary investigations indicated that the children were being transported allegedly for training under suspicious circumstances from Kano State to Nasarawa State.

“On January 6, at approximately 3:30 p.m., a team intercepted a white Peugeot 15-seater bus along the Abuja-Kano route. It was transporting 59 male children aged between four and 12. Preliminary findings revealed that the children came from different families in Kano State and were being conveyed by one Idris Usman, who claimed to be taking them to Nasarawa State for training,” Disu explained.

The FCT Police Command classified the case as suspected child trafficking and abuse, stating the lack of proper documentation and parental consent for the movement of the minors.

“The suspects, the vehicle, and all the children are in custody, and a thorough investigation is underway. The Police Command is collaborating with the FCT Social Development Secretariat to ensure the safe reunification of the children with their families and to prosecute those responsible for this act,” the commissioner said.

Disu reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, particularly children, from exploitation and abuse, in alignment with the Child’s Rights Act of 2003. He also urged parents and guardians to be vigilant in safeguarding their children.

“We appeal to parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure the safety of their children,” Disu stated.