Lagos State Police Command has successfully rescued four kidnapped children at Alafia Bus Terminal in Coker-Orile, Lagos, and reunited them with their parents after a swift intervention by patrol officers. The incident occurred on May 8, 2026, at approximately 11:40 p.m., when police operatives on routine patrol noticed the children with an unidentified woman preparing to board a luxury bus heading out of the state. Upon seeing the officers, the woman fled the scene, leaving the children behind. The children were immediately taken into protective custody as investigations began to trace their families.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children had been abducted earlier from the Ijesha-Tedo area of Lagos and were being transported out of the state under the cover of night. The police statement confirmed that the suspect, believed to be a child trafficker, abandoned the children when confronted by the patrol team. Authorities quickly traced the parents of the children and facilitated their safe return. The reunion was carried out with full coordination between the police and the families involved.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, issued a statement highlighting the operation as part of the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai’s ongoing efforts to combat crimes against children and protect vulnerable populations. The commissioner commended the patrol officers for their alertness and professionalism, emphasizing the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving children to the nearest police station or security agency without delay.
The ongoing investigation aims to apprehend the fleeing suspect and uncover any other individuals involved in the criminal act. Authorities are also working to determine the full extent of the network behind the abduction. The rescue operation underscores the importance of community cooperation and police vigilance in preventing child trafficking and other forms of child abuse. The incident serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of child abduction in urban areas and the need for constant awareness and proactive reporting.
As Lagos State continues to strengthen its security measures, this successful rescue operation demonstrates the effectiveness of routine patrols and rapid response. The police remain committed to ensuring the safety of children and vulnerable residents, with a focus on early detection and swift intervention. The public is encouraged to stay alert and support law enforcement efforts to protect children from exploitation and trafficking.
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