Police Intercept Suspected Trafficker With 59 Children in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has intercepted a man allegedly involved in the trafficking of 59 male children in Abuja.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, disclosed this during a media briefing on Wednesday, stating that the suspect was apprehended on Monday by the command’s Patrol and Guard Unit, led by DSP Sarki Umar, around 3:30 p.m.
“The suspect was intercepted in a white Peugeot J5 bus with registration number KMC 283 ZJ along the Abuja-Kano route. The bus was found to be transporting 59 male children, aged between four and 12 years,” Disu revealed.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the children, who came from different families, were allegedly being transported by the suspect, who resides in Nasarawa State, under the pretext of training them.
“The incident has been classified as suspected child abuse and trafficking, given the lack of proper documentation and parental consent for the movement of the minors,” the commissioner added.
The suspect, the vehicle, and the children are currently in police custody while investigations continue. The command is collaborating with the FCT Social Development Secretariat to ensure the children are safely reunited with their families and that those responsible face justice.
Disu reiterated the police command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, especially children, from exploitation and abuse, in line with the Child’s Rights Act, 2023.
He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of their children.
