Plateau Govt. Rescues 16 Children Trafficked to Anambra, Hands Them Back to Parents

The Plateau State Government has rescued 16 children trafficked from Bassa Local Government Area to Anambra State and reunited them with their families in Jos.

The children, aged between four and nine, were rescued following coordinated efforts by state authorities, while the suspect behind the trafficking has been arrested and placed in custody.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Caroline Dafur, described the rescue as a major victory against child trafficking, stressing the importance of protecting the innocence of children. She said the development represents triumph over trauma and the restoration of hope for the affected families. Dafur also urged citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities, emphasizing that collective vigilance is key to ending child trafficking in Plateau.

At a ceremony held at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos, the children were officially handed over to their families in the presence of parents, guardians, and community representatives. The Wife of the Bassa Local Government Council Chairman, Miriam Riti, who received the children on behalf of the council, assured parents that measures have been put in place to safeguard their wellbeing. She noted that medical checks, school enrollment, and monitoring through community leaders would ensure the children’s smooth reintegration.

Parents expressed mixed emotions of relief and gratitude during the event. Mrs. Asabe Agidi, one of the mothers, revealed she was misled into believing her daughter was being taken away for a better life. Fighting back tears, she thanked the government for intervening, saying she was grateful to have her child back and would now care for her with the little she had.

The Plateau State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and pursuing justice against traffickers, stressing that the safety of the state’s youngest citizens remains a top priority.