In a chilling case of child trafficking, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has apprehended a pastor and three of his alleged accomplices while attempting to smuggle two children out of Abuja for illegal sale.
According to police authorities, the operation was foiled in the early hours of Saturday, May 24, 2025, following a distress call from Wazobia Motor Park in Gwagwalada. The alert came after staff noticed a man behaving suspiciously while trying to board a night vehicle to Owerri, Imo State, with a 7-year-old boy.
Swiftly responding to the call, the police arrested the suspect, later identified as Israel Ajah, who was found with a minor, Muktar Hassan. Investigations quickly traced the boy’s handover to Israel’s elder brother, Reverend Pastor Prince Bassey Ajah, the General Overseer of Wells of Salvation Church, located in Byazhin Across.
Pastor Ajah was arrested alongside two women, Nancy Atoo and Deaconess Vera Duru, who were implicated in the trafficking ring.
Further search of Nancy Atoo’s residence uncovered a second victim—a 4-year-old girl named “Mercy” by the suspects. The child, with no known identity or documentation, is now under protective custody while authorities work to trace her biological parents.
The police revealed that both children were being trafficked to the southeast for illegal sale. Muktar was reportedly priced at ₦1.2 million, a transaction said to have been arranged by Deaconess Duru.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, praised the alertness of the motor park staff, saying their vigilance prevented a tragic outcome. He also warned parents to remain cautious and avoid sending underage children on errands alone.
The command assured that all suspects remain in custody and will face prosecution. Meanwhile, young Muktar has been safely reunited with his family.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity via the FCT emergency hotlines: 08032003913, 08061581938, or 07057337653.
