The Kogi government says it has foiled a suspected child-trafficking operation in Yagba East, rescuing 21 children aged between six and 17.

Commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed the interception in a statement issued in Lokoja on Monday.

He said the operation was a “bold move” by the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operatives who worked with other security agencies on December 5 at about 1500hrs.

Mr Fanwo said, “The government wishes to inform the public of the successful interception of underage children trafficked into the state for suspected covert banditry recruitment.”

He explained that the children were packed into a truck heading to an unknown location when security officers stopped the vehicle.

He added that initial investigations showed the minors were moved from different northern states by adults who offered no legitimate explanation.

Mr Fanwo said several suspects had been arrested, including people claiming they were taking the children to start an informal Islamic school in Yagba East.

He confirmed that the rescued children had been taken to the NSCDC command in Lokoja for profiling and further investigation.

He said Governor Ahmed Ododo had directed the ministry of women affairs to take full custody of the minors and provide psychosocial support.

“The administration will work with security agencies to safeguard every part of the state,” Mr Fanwo said.

He restated the governor’s stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration and all security threats.

“All individuals found culpable will be prosecuted under Kogi’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws,” he said.

The government assured the public it would ensure justice and reunite the children with their families.

NSCDC formally handed the children to the ministry of women affairs at its Lokoja command on Monday.

Deputy commandant, Adebola Bello, represented state commandant, Aletan Ebenezer, at the ceremony.

NSCDC spokesperson, Abdullahi Aliyu, said the minors were intercepted after a tip-off about a truck carrying children in Isanlu.

He said, “The officers intercepted the truck, and investigation is ongoing.”

Mr Aliyu confirmed that the victims had been handed to the ministry because NAPTIP has no presence in Kogi.

(NAN)