The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, says it rescued a 15-year-old girl from alleged trafficking to Libya.

This is disclosed in a statement by FCT NSCDC spokesperson, Monica Ojobi, on Friday in Abuja.

Ms Ojobi said the girl was rescued from a 46-year-old suspect who allegedly detained her for two weeks in Kwali without consent.

She said the operation followed a missing person report filed by the victim’s mother at the Kwali command.

Preliminary investigations indicated the victim was allegedly subjected to sexual molestation while in the suspect’s custody.

“Further interrogation uncovered the suspect’s plan to traffic the minor to Libya for child labour before he was intercepted,” Ms Ojobi said.

Ms Ojobi said FCT commandant Olusola Odumosu assured the victim’s family that justice would take its course.

“We will ensure justice is served and dismantle networks enabling such crimes.

“My covert officers are gathering intelligence to guide our actions. We are not backing down,” he said. 

The commandant said the suspect and victim were handed over to NAPTIP for further investigation and possible prosecution if found culpable.

Mr Odumosu said the corps remained committed, with partner agencies, to tackling human trafficking and related crimes nationwide.

“The likes of the suspect exploit innocent girls for selfish gain, but they will not be spared once caught,” he said.

He said the arrest underscored the corps’ commitment to protecting vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.

Mr Odumosu urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements of children to security agencies.

He called for stronger community cooperation to combat human trafficking and other criminal activities.

(NAN)