The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police (CP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has announced the successful interception of a suspected child trafficking operation. The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the FCT Police Command Headquarters.
The interception occurred on January 6, 2025, when a patrol team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sarki Umar stopped a white Peugeot 15-seater bus with registration number KMC 283 ZJ along the Abuja-Kano route. The vehicle was driven by Ali Ibrahim, a resident of Kano State, with his assistant, Al Hassan Ibrahim. Inside the bus were 59 male children, aged between 4 and 12 years.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children were being transported by one Idris Usman, a resident of Nasarawa State, who allegedly arranged their journey from Kano State under the guise of providing training in Nasarawa State. However, the operation raised concerns of child trafficking as there were no valid documents or parental consent authorizing the transportation of the minors.
The suspects, vehicle, and all 59 children are currently in police custody, with investigations ongoing. The FCT Police Command is collaborating with the Social Development Secretariat (SDS) to ensure the safe reunification of the children with their families and to prosecute those involved in the illegal operation.
Speaking at the press briefing, CP Disu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding children and protecting them from abuse and exploitation. “We are resolute in our mission to uphold the provisions of the Child’s Right Act 2003 and to ensure that vulnerable groups, especially children, are shielded from harm,” he stated.
The Commissioner urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety and well-being of their children. He also emphasized the importance of community support in combating child trafficking and abuse.
This development underscores the FCT Police Command’s dedication to addressing crimes against children and maintaining the safety and security of the Federal Capital Territory.
