The Adamawa State Police Command has disrupted a suspected child trafficking operation, rescuing three teenage girls who were allegedly deceived with promises of employment outside the state.
Two women have been arrested in connection with the case, while investigations continue to uncover possible links to a broader network.
The operation followed credible intelligence received by operatives of the State Intelligence Department (SID).
Acting swiftly, the officers intercepted the three minors on February 17, 2026, at Adamawa Sunshine Motor Park in Yola.
The timely intervention, according to police authorities, prevented what they believe could have escalated into a serious case of human exploitation.
The rescued teenagers were identified as Naomi Linus, 14; Agnes Thomas, 16; and Patience Justine, 15. Preliminary findings indicate that the girls were allegedly lured from their communities with assurances of securing domestic jobs in Abuja.
However, police investigators described the arrangement as suspicious and consistent with patterns commonly associated with child trafficking and labour exploitation.
Spokesperson of the command, SP Suleiman Nguroje, confirmed the development while briefing journalists. He disclosed that two female suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.
The suspects were identified as Hasiya Yuguda, 35, a resident of the NEPA area in Jimeta, Yola North, and Ummulkhairi Abubakar, 40, from Wuro-Hausa in Yola South.
According to Nguroje, further investigations have also implicated a third individual, Simon Boniface, 38, from Bitakoyali in Zing Local Government Area of Taraba State.
He is currently assisting the police with ongoing inquiries as detectives work to determine the extent of his involvement.
Authorities said the intercepted movement of the girls bore clear indicators of child trafficking, particularly the method of recruiting minors under the pretext of employment opportunities in distant cities.
Police officials emphasized that traffickers often exploit economic hardship and limited opportunities in rural areas to target vulnerable families.
The Adamawa Police Command noted that early detection and intelligence gathering were critical in preventing the suspected crime from being carried out.
Officers reportedly monitored suspicious activities before moving in to intercept the minors at the motor park, where transportation arrangements were allegedly underway.
The three teenage girls are currently in protective custody, where they are receiving care and support.
Police authorities stated that efforts are ongoing to locate their parents or guardians to ensure safe reunification.
Social welfare agencies are also expected to collaborate with the police to provide counselling and rehabilitation services where necessary.
Commissioner of Police Dankombo Morris reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking, human exploitation, and abuse of minors.
He assured residents that law enforcement agencies in the state remain committed to identifying and dismantling any networks involved in such criminal activities.
Morris urged parents and guardians to be cautious about employment offers made to their children, especially those requiring relocation to unfamiliar environments.
He advised families to verify job opportunities thoroughly and to report suspicious recruitment schemes to security agencies without delay.
The case has sparked renewed concerns about the vulnerability of minors to deceptive recruitment tactics.
Security experts say traffickers often disguise illegal operations as legitimate employment or apprenticeship programs, making it difficult for unsuspecting families to detect red flags.
Community leaders in Adamawa have also called for increased public awareness campaigns to educate families about the dangers of child trafficking.
They emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between law enforcement, schools, religious institutions, and civil society groups to combat the growing threat.
Police authorities confirmed that investigations are still ongoing to determine whether the arrested suspects are part of a larger trafficking syndicate operating within Adamawa State or across state lines.
Detectives are examining communication records, travel arrangements, and financial transactions linked to the suspects.
The Adamawa Police Command further encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and proactive.
Officials stressed that community cooperation plays a vital role in preventing crimes involving minors.
They appealed to transport operators and park managers to report suspicious travel arrangements involving underage passengers.
As the investigation progresses, authorities have assured residents that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations and intensifying efforts against child trafficking in all its forms.
The rescue of the three teenage girls serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks faced by young people seeking opportunities beyond their immediate environment.
While the swift action of the Adamawa Police prevented a potential tragedy, security officials say sustained vigilance and public awareness remain essential in addressing the broader challenge of human exploitation.
