Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have rescued four kidnapped children and reunited them with their families after intercepting a suspected trafficker at Alafia Bus Terminal, Coker-Orile.
The rescue occurred on 8th May, 2026, during a routine patrol that prevented the children from being moved out of the state.
The incident took place at about 11:40 p.m. when officers observed four children in the company of an unidentified woman attempting to board a luxury bus heading outside Lagos. On sighting the patrol team, the woman abandoned the children and fled to an unknown location.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the children had earlier been abducted from the Ijesha-Tedo area of Lagos State. The suspect was allegedly attempting to transport them out of the state under the cover of night before the police intervened.
The children were immediately taken into protective custody. Police officers promptly contacted their families, and all four have since been safely reunited with their parents.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, psc, mnips, commended the alertness and professionalism of the officers involved in the operation. He said the swift response reflects the command’s unwavering commitment to combating crimes against children and safeguarding vulnerable persons across the state.
CP Fatai assured Lagos residents that the command remains dedicated to protecting lives and property. He added that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and uncover other individuals connected to the criminal act.
The commissioner urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about the safety and whereabouts of their children at all times. He advised them to promptly report any suspicious movements, persons, or activities involving children to the nearest police station or security agency for immediate action.
Police confirmed that a manhunt is underway for the suspect, and detectives are working to establish the full network behind the attempted trafficking. No arrests have been made as of 10th May, 2026.
The statement was issued by SP Abimbola Adebisi, anipr, mipra, Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Ikeja.