The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has intercepted a 15-seater white Peugeot bus carrying 59 children, raising suspicions of child trafficking.
The children, aged between four and 12 years, were rescued along the Abuja-Kano route on Monday by a team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sarki Umar.
The vehicle, registered as KMC 283 ZJ, was driven by Ali Ibrahim, a resident of Kano State, accompanied by his assistant, Alhassan Ibrahim. Both were apprehended on the spot.
According to the FCT Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, preliminary investigations revealed that the children were allegedly being transported from Kano to Nasarawa State under the guise of receiving training.
Disu stated, “On January 6, 2025, at about 3:30 PM, a police team intercepted the vehicle. The children, hailing from various families in Kano, were reportedly gathered by one Idris Usman, a resident of Nasarawa State, who intended to take them for training without proper documentation or parental consent.”
The incident has been classified as suspected child trafficking and abuse. All 59 children, the vehicle, and the suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.
The police are working closely with the FCT Social Development Secretariat to reunite the children with their families and bring those involved to justice.
Disu emphasized the command’s commitment to safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse in accordance with the Child’s Rights Act 2003. He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure their children’s safety.
