Police dismantle child trafficking syndicate, rescue 11 victims in Lagos
Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a notorious trans-border child trafficking syndicate, rescuing eleven young victims and arresting four suspects linked to the recruitment and transportation of Nigerians to Ghana for prostitution.
On August 13, 2025, the operatives from the Ilemba Hausa Division intercepted one Mustapha Abubakar, an alleged motorcycle operator and recruiter, while he was attempting to traffic a 15-year-old girl to Ghana.
The matter was subsequently transferred to the Command’s Special Squad I, which, acting on credible intelligence, launched a coordinated manhunt.
The operation led to the arrest of Charles Chima (54) in Amuwo Odofin, Emmanuel Nwaka (36) along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, and Princess John (21) at Ojota.
Investigations confirmed that the suspects were part of a wider criminal network involved in trafficking young women across borders.
Further investigations enabled the safe rescue of ten additional victims, aged between 21 and 29, who had been targeted for exploitation.
They are currently receiving protective care and support, with plans underway to reunite them with their families.
The suspects remain in police custody and are cooperating with investigators to expose other members of the syndicate.
Commending the operatives for their swift and professional response, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for human trafficking and exploitation.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, safeguard the welfare of young people, and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Police dismantle child trafficking syndicate, rescue 11 victims in Lagos
