The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully dismantled a child trafficking syndicate, arresting a pastor and three accomplices, and rescuing two children.
This operation is part of the command’s ongoing commitment to combating crime and ensuring public safety.
The arrests stemmed from a distress call received by the Gwagwalada Area Command at 2:00 AM on May 24, 2025.
Officials at the Wazobia Motor Park in Gwagwalada reported a suspicious male individual attempting to travel with a young child.
According to a statement by SP Josephine Adeh, the command’s spokesperson, sent to Persecondnews, a Police Emergency Response Team was immediately dispatched to the scene.
The officers arrested one Israel Ajah as he tried to board a vehicle to Owerri, Imo State, with seven-year-old Muktar Hassan in his custody.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the child had been handed over to Israel Ajah by his elder brother, Reverend Pastor Prince Bassey Ajah.
Pastor Ajah, who is the General Overseer (‘Daddy G.O.’) of Wells of Salvation Church in Byazhin Across, was promptly arrested. Two other accomplices, Nancy Atoo and Deaconess Vera Duru, were also taken into custody.
The statement reads: “A search conducted at Atoo’s residence led to the rescue of a second victim, a 4-year-old girl known only as ‘Mercy’, a name given to her by the suspect. No documentation or identifying information was found for the child, who is currently in protective custody while efforts are underway to trace her biological family.
“Meanwhile, Hassan has since been reunited with his family. Further investigation revealed that both children were being trafficked to Owerri for sale. The suspects confessed that Hassan was to be sold for N1.2 million through arrangements facilitated by Duru.
“FCT Police Commissioner Ajao S. Adewale has commended the vigilance and prompt response of officials at Wazobia Motor Park. He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and avoid sending underage children on errands alone.
“FCT residents are enjoined to always report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, or 07057337653′.”
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