NSCDC Rescues 15 Minors Allegedly Sold for N2m Each

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has rescued 15 minors who were allegedly trafficked from Nasarawa State and sold to suspected buyers for about N2 million each. The NSCDC said the children were taken from communities in Kokona Local Government Area after their parents were allegedly deceived by a suspected member of a trafficking syndicate. The development was disclosed by the corps’ Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, during a briefing at the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja.

According to the NSCDC, the suspect allegedly presented himself as an official of the National Council of Child Rights Advocates and operated under the appearance of running an NGO and orphanage initiative called the Back to School Project. Parents were reportedly promised free education for their children, which allegedly persuaded them to release the minors into the suspect’s care. The corps said the operation targeted vulnerable families who believed the children were being taken for educational opportunities.

The children were reportedly taken from Kama Madaki and Gudindi Mada communities in Kokona LGA. The NSCDC said 16 children were initially collected, with 15 subsequently rescued from alleged buyers during an intelligence-led operation. Three of the rescued children were located in Anambra, Imo and Enugu states, while the others were recovered through coordinated operations along eastern transit routes.

The Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, led by Commander Dandaura Appollos, carried out the rescue operation using field tracking, technical intelligence and coordinated operations across several locations. The NSCDC also announced the arrest of three suspected buyers—one man and two women—in connection with the investigation. Authorities are expected to continue investigating the wider network and determining the roles of those involved.

The NSCDC has reiterated its position against human trafficking and urged members of the public to remain vigilant when approached with offers involving the movement or care of children. The case also highlights the risks faced by vulnerable families who may be targeted with promises of education and other assistance. The corps said anyone found culpable after investigation would face prosecution, while efforts continue to identify and dismantle other members of the alleged trafficking network.