By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have successfully rescued four kidnapped children and reunited them with their families following a swift intervention at the Alafia Bus Terminal in the Coker-Orile area.
The rescue operation was carried out in line with directives from the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, aimed at intensifying the protection of vulnerable persons and curbing crimes against children throughout the state.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the children were rescued at approximately 11:40 p.m. on May 8, 2026, during a routine patrol of the terminal.
The patrol team’s suspicions were aroused when they spotted the children in the company of an unidentified woman who was preparing to board a luxury bus destined for a location outside Lagos.
“Upon sighting the police patrol team, the suspected trafficker abandoned the children and fled the scene to an unknown destination,” the statement disclosed.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children had been abducted from the Ijesha-Tedo area of Lagos.
Authorities believe the suspect intended to transport the victims out of the state under the cover of night before the police intervened.
Following the rescue, the children were taken into protective custody. The Command successfully identified and contacted their parents, leading to an emotional reunion.
Investigations remain active as police work to apprehend the fleeing suspect and uncover any broader trafficking network linked to the crime.
Commending the officers for their alertness and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
He also issued a stern advisory to parents and guardians, urging them to remain vigilant regarding the safety of their children and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency immediately.