In a commendable effort to combat child trafficking across state borders, the Kaduna State Government has successfully rescued 13 children who were kidnapped and trafficked to various parts of Nigeria.
According to the Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Rabi Salisu, the children, some of whom were as young as seven days old when abducted, were sold to traffickers operating in Kebbi, Cross River, Enugu, and Anambra States.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, April 12, 2025, Commissioner Salisu revealed the harrowing details of the rescue operation.
“The rescued children were trafficked to Enugu State by a syndicate, with some members of the criminal gang still at large,” she stated.
“Their identities were altered, making it challenging for them to remember their original homes.”
Salisu further disclosed that the children, now under the care of the Kaduna State government, are receiving specialized support and rehabilitation.
This includes psychosocial counseling, nutritional support, medical care, and efforts to reconnect them with their families.
The ministry received 11 children from the office of the state Commissioner of Police in Abuja on March 24, 2025, and an additional seven children on April 9, 2025.
Highlighting the disturbing tactics employed by traffickers, Salisu noted, “Five members of the kidnapping gang have confessed that their leader operated an orphanage in Abuja to facilitate these crimes.
The orphanage was used as a temporary shelter for the stolen children before negotiating their sale to buyers in the eastern part of the country.”
The Commissioner urged parents who suspect their children may have been abducted to come forward with concrete evidence, emphasizing the importance of good parenting and vigilance in safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse.
Ali Adamu, a relieved parent whose daughter Maryam was abducted two months ago in Kogi State, expressed gratitude to the ministry and government agencies for their swift action in reuniting him with his daughter.
The Kaduna State Government continues to investigate the case, working closely with law enforcement agencies to apprehend all perpetrators involved in this heinous act of child trafficking.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
