The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, has rescued a 15-year-old girl from an alleged human trafficking attempt and arrested a suspect in Kwali Area Council of Abuja.
The development was disclosed in a statement by the FCT NSCDC spokesperson, Monica Ojobi, who confirmed that the minor had been held for about two weeks by a 46-year-old suspect without the consent of her family.
According to the statement, the rescue operation followed a missing person report filed by the victim’s mother at the Kwali command, prompting swift action by operatives who tracked down the suspect and secured the girl’s release.
Preliminary investigations revealed troubling details, including allegations that the victim was subjected to sexual molestation during her captivity. Further interrogation, according to the NSCDC, uncovered plans by the suspect to traffic the girl to Libya for child labour before he was intercepted.
The FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, assured the victim’s family that justice would be pursued, stressing that the corps remains resolute in dismantling criminal networks involved in human trafficking.
“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.
Odumosu confirmed that both the suspect and the victim have been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and possible prosecution if the suspect is found culpable.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly children, from exploitation and abuse, noting that collaboration with partner security agencies remains critical in tackling trafficking and related crimes across the country.
The commandant also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities involving minors to relevant authorities, emphasizing that stronger community cooperation is essential in combating human trafficking.
The latest operation underscores the continued efforts of security agencies to curb the growing threat of trafficking and safeguard at-risk populations from exploitation.