By Muhammad Mamman
Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Niger State Police Command have arraigned eight suspected child traffickers before the Minna Chief Magistrate’s Court, following a cross-border operation that led to their arrest in neighbouring Nasarawa State.
The suspects were apprehended while allegedly in possession of children believed to have been stolen from different parts of Niger State. The arrests were carried out by a team led by the Head of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, DSP Ahmed Sa’idu, after intelligence-driven investigations uncovered the suspected trafficking network.
Those arraigned include Leo Ugochukwu, Ngozi Ugochukwu, Henrietta Obiako and Rosemary Ogbulogo, alongside four others whose identities were also presented before the court.
Police sources said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were involved in the illegal movement and sale of children across state lines, raising serious concerns about organised child trafficking in the region.
The defendants were arraigned on charges bordering on child stealing and trafficking, offences punishable under Nigerian law. The court is expected to hear arguments on the matter as investigations continue, while the rescued children have been placed under protective care pending further action.
The Niger State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to combating child trafficking and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements involving children to the nearest police station.
