September 27, 2025 – In a significant operation, the Plateau State Government, through its Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has successfully rescued 16 children who were being trafficked from Bassa Local Government Area to Anambra State.
The children, aged between four and nine, were intercepted by security personnel as they were being taken to a motor park for their onward journey to Anambra. The operation, which took place on Saturday, was hailed as a victory in the fight against child trafficking in the state.
Government’s Commitment to Protecting the Vulnerable
The Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Caroline Dafur, shared the news in a statement in Jos, the state capital. She revealed that the traffickers had been arrested and would face prosecution following a thorough investigation.
Dafur stressed that the Governor Caleb Mutfwang administration is deeply committed to safeguarding the rights of the most vulnerable, especially children. She described the rescue operation as a “triumph over trauma, resilience, and hope restored,” highlighting the importance of protecting childhood innocence in a world increasingly threatened by exploitation.
“This rescue represents triumph over trauma, resilience, and hope restored in a world where the innocence of childhood should be protected,” Dafur said.
Vigilance and Public Participation
The commissioner also called on the public to remain vigilant and actively report any suspicious activities. She encouraged citizens to not remain silent in cases of child trafficking, urging them to immediately report such instances to security agencies. “If you see something, say something. Together, we can put an end to child trafficking in Plateau State,” Dafur urged.
Support for the Children
The rescued children were handed over to their families and community representatives at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos. The Wife of the Bassa LGA Chairman, Mrs. Miriam Riti, received the children on behalf of her husband, ensuring that measures were in place to monitor their well-being.
These measures include medical checks, school enrollment, and continued oversight by community leaders to ensure the children’s safety and proper integration into their communities.
This operation marks a vital success in the fight against human trafficking, especially the abduction and exploitation of children, which remains a serious issue in many parts of Nigeria. It highlights the importance of continued vigilance, swift government action, and community involvement in tackling such crimes.
As the state government continues to strengthen efforts to combat trafficking, Caroline Dafur and others are urging the public to stay alert and contribute to building a safer environment for children across Plateau State.
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