The Benue State Police Command has arrested a suspected child trafficker and successfully rescued a kidnapped boy in Makurdi.
Confirming the development in a statement on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Commissioner of Police, CP Steve Yabanet, stated that the arrest followed a report of a missing child in the North Bank area of Makurdi.
He noted that the police swiftly disseminated information to the public to aid in locating the child.
According to CP Yabanet, on February 9, 2025, officers at ‘E’ Division, Makurdi, received intelligence that a man identified as Obadiah Samaila, a resident of Kizito Junction, Agyragu, Doduguru in Nasarawa State, was seen with a young boy around George Akume Way, Makurdi.
The suspect reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation about the child’s identity and origin.
“Swift action was taken, leading to the suspect’s arrest. Upon interrogation, he confessed to abducting the child from his home in North Bank for the purpose of trafficking,” the CP disclosed.
The police have assured that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other possible accomplices and dismantle any trafficking networks linked to the case.
The rescued child is currently in safe custody and receiving necessary care.