The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has intercepted a 15-seater Peugeot bus transporting 59 children, aged between four and 12, under suspicious circumstances. The operation, carried out along the Abuja-Kano route on Monday, has raised serious concerns about potential child trafficking.
Arrest and Discovery
A police team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Sarki Umar stopped the white bus, registered as KMC 283 ZJ, and apprehended the driver, Ali Ibrahim, and his assistant, Alhassan Ibrahim, both residents of Kano State. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, confirmed the arrests and provided details about the intercepted vehicle and its occupants.
Background of the Incident
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children, hailing from different families in Kano State, were allegedly being transported to Nasarawa State by one Idris Usman under the guise of providing training. The lack of proper documentation or parental consent for the movement of the minors flagged the operation as suspicious, prompting further investigation.
Disu stated, “On January 6, 2025, at about 1530 hours, a team intercepted a white Peugeot 15-seater 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. Preliminary investigations revealed that they were being transported to Nasarawa State without adequate documentation or consent from their families.”
Classification as Child Trafficking
The incident has been categorized as suspected child trafficking and abuse. The FCT Police Command is treating the case as a violation of the Child’s Rights Act 2003. Disu noted that all suspects, the vehicle, and the minors are currently in custody while investigations continue.
He added, “We are working closely with the FCT Social Development Secretariat to ensure the safe reunification of these children with their families. Our priority is to provide support and protection for the children while bringing all those involved in this act to justice.”
Call for Vigilance
The Commissioner urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant to safeguard their children from exploitation and abuse. He reiterated the police command’s dedication to protecting vulnerable groups and preventing incidents of child trafficking.
“We appeal to parents and guardians to stay alert and ensure the safety of their children,” Disu emphasized.
Broader Implications
The interception highlights the ongoing issue of child trafficking and exploitation in Nigeria. The police command’s swift action underscores the importance of vigilance and the enforcement of the Child’s Rights Act to protect minors from such dangers.
As investigations proceed, Nigerians hope that this case will result in stringent actions against perpetrators and raise public awareness about the risks of child trafficking.
