NSCDC Operation Saves 15 Child Trafficking Victims Sold for N2 Million

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) recently disclosed that it successfully rescued fifteen children who were reportedly victims of human trafficking, each sold for a staggering N2 million. Mr. Babawale Afolabi, the NSCDC Public Relations Officer, shared this information with journalists during a press briefing held at the Corps Headquarters in Abuja. He explained that this significant rescue was part of a larger, coordinated effort aimed at dismantling criminal networks engaged in child trafficking and the destruction of public infrastructure. During the same comprehensive operation, law enforcement agents also recovered illegally acquired rifles and damaged telecommunications apparatus.

Afolabi further elaborated that an individual suspected to be part of the trafficking ring masqueraded as a representative from the National Council of Child Rights Advocate. This individual manipulated unsuspecting parents into handing over their offspring. "Operating under the guise of an NGO and an orphanage initiative dubbed the 'Back to School Project,' he enticed disadvantaged parents to release their children by offering them the prospect of complimentary schooling," Afolabi stated.

The rescue mission, according to Afolabi, was executed by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, under the leadership of Commander Dandaura Appollos. Out of sixteen children initially reported to have been trafficked from the Kama Madaki and Gudindi Mada communities in Nasarawa State's Kokona Local Government Area, fifteen were successfully retrieved from those who had purchased them.

"Utilizing sophisticated field tracking methods, technical intelligence gathering, and tactical raids across multiple states, the CG’s SIS operatives managed to locate the buyers, who were dispersed across various parts of the country," he remarked. The NSCDC spokesperson specified that three of the young victims were found and rescued in Anambra, Imo, and Enugu states. The other twelve were recovered during a synchronized operation conducted along major transportation corridors in the eastern region of Nigeria.

Additionally, he revealed that three individuals suspected of being buyers — one male and two females — have been apprehended in connection with this serious crime. The NSCDC confirmed that comprehensive investigations into the alleged human trafficking syndicate are still ongoing.