The Nigerian Police Force, Sokoto State Command, has rescued 20 children, including six biological children sold by their father. The state Commissioner of Police, Ali Kaigama, revealed the details during a press briefing at the command headquarters on Thursday.
Kaigama reported that 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the child trafficking operation. Among them is Bala Abubakar from Tudun Wada, who is accused of giving away 28 children, including his own six, to individuals claiming to transfer them to an NGO in Abuja for better care, in exchange for sums ranging from N150,000 to N250,000.
The commissioner also disclosed the arrest of Saifullah Hassan from Gunmi Local Government Area in Zamfara State, who allegedly murdered Balikisu Garba. The incident was reported by the manager of Ifeoma Hotel, leading to a swift police operation that resulted in Hassan’s capture in Katsina State.
In another successful operation, the command rescued Barrister Rukayat, who was recently kidnapped in the Bado area. Working with the military and local vigilantes, the police traced the kidnappers to a forest in the Binji axis, where one suspect was killed, and another injured during the rescue.
Kaigama commended the state governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for his unwavering support throughout the investigations and operations. He assured the public of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
The rescued children have been handed over to the state orphanage for proper care, while the suspects face legal proceedings. The police urge the community to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure a safer environment.
This incident has highlighted the pressing need for stronger measures against child trafficking and a more robust support system for vulnerable children in the region.
