Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, has successfully repatriated 39 trafficked Plateau children back to Jos.
This heroic achievement was made possible through a collaborative effort with: The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Plateau State Gender Commission, FCT Mandate Secretary, and Federal Ministry for Women Affairs.
The investigation began after a viral video surfaced showing three Plateau girls found on the streets of Abuja, who escaped from an illegal camp. Upon interrogation, they revealed the location of the camp, leading to a crackdown and the rescue of the children.
The Ministry traced some of the parents of the children, who faced sanctions for parental negligence and have undertaken to be more responsible henceforth. Today, these children’s education and well-being, evidently showing their school admission letters and evidence of school fees payment, while those whose parents are yet to be traced and the orphans will be on Government custody and will ensure they return to school and rehabilitated.
The Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development will adequately follow up and provide support, including Rehabilitation services, Education assistance, Counseling, and Reintegration programs.
This successful repatriation serves as a reminder of the importance of; Vigilance in reporting suspected cases of child trafficking, Collaborative efforts among government agencies and stakeholders, Parental responsibility and accountability, Support for victims of trafficking.
Hon Dafur briefed the press; “This achievement demonstrates our commitment to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring the well-being of our children. We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent child trafficking and support those affected”, he said.
-9News Nigeria.
