Police Rescue 4 Kidnapped Children from Traffickers at Lagos Bus Terminal

Lagos State Police have rescued four kidnapped children from suspected traffickers at the Alafia Bus Terminal in Coker-Orile, Surulere — a swift intervention that reunited the kids with their families before they could be moved further.

How the Rescue Happened

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the rescue on Saturday, May 10. According to the command, police operatives on routine patrol at the Alafia Bus Terminal intercepted the suspects who were found with four children. The children had been kidnapped and the suspects were believed to be trafficking them when police moved in.

Vanguard reported that the children were rescued at the terminal in the Coker-Orile area of Surulere. After the rescue, the police verified the identities of the children and reunited them with their parents.

Arrests Made, Investigations Ongoing

The police spokesperson confirmed that suspects were apprehended at the scene. The command said investigation is ongoing and that the case would be handed over to the appropriate anti-human trafficking unit for further action.

The rescue is a reminder of how busy transport hubs like bus terminals remain prime targets for traffickers in Lagos — locations with large crowds, constant movement, and limited oversight make it easier to move victims undetected. The Alafia terminal in Coker-Orile serves a dense residential area in Surulere on the Lagos mainland.

Child Trafficking Remains a Major Problem

Lagos has seen several child trafficking arrests in recent years. In August 2025, the Lagos State Police Command busted a trans-border trafficking gang that had been moving children across state lines. The frequency of such cases points to an organized criminal network that continues to operate in the state despite increased patrol operations.

The police command urged residents to report suspicious activities around motor parks and bus terminals, especially those involving adults travelling with multiple children.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard