NSCDC Intercepts Truck Conveying Minors Aged 6–17 Into Yagba East
Security operatives in Kogi State have rescued 21 underage children believed to have been trafficked for a covert banditry recruitment operation in Yagba East Local Government Area. Akahi News learnt that the minors, aged between 6 and 17, were intercepted by officers who acted swiftly on credible intelligence from community hunters.
The Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to Journalists.
Suspicious Movement Raises Alarm
According to the government statement, the interception occurred around 3:00 p.m. on December 5, 2025, when vigilant operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), working alongside other security agencies in Isanlu, stopped a truck transporting the children into the state.
Initial investigations indicated that the children were moved from various northern states under questionable circumstances. The adults accompanying them reportedly failed to provide legitimate reasons for the minors’ movement. Some suspects claimed they were on their way to establish an informal “Islamic school” in Yagba East — an explanation authorities found unconvincing given the circumstances.
Arrests Made, More Suspects Uncovered
Akahi News gathered that several suspects connected to the trafficking operation were arrested on the spot. Further surveillance led to the arrest of additional individuals allegedly linked to the movement of the children, with some found in possession of items that raised “significant security concerns,” according to the government statement.
The rescued children have since been transferred to the NSCDC State Command in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of everyone involved in the operation.
Governor Ododo Orders Full Protection and Care for Victims
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the minors, ensuring their safety, welfare, and immediate psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.
The statement further noted that once profiling and verification are completed, the children will be handed over to their respective state governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families.
Firm Stand Against Child Trafficking and Criminal Infiltration
Authorities have vowed that all individuals found culpable will be prosecuted under Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.
The Kogi State Government reiterated its firm stance against criminal infiltration, banditry recruitment, and all forms of security threats. It also reaffirmed that Governor Ododo’s administration will continue working closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every corner of the state.
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