PLATEAU STATE, Nigeria — Pastor Dayo Bernard, the prominent cleric from the End Time Army Ministry in Bukuru, was arrested for allegedly leading a significant child-trafficking syndicate in Plateau State, Nigeria. In a coordinated operation, authorities successfully dismantled the network and rescued 13 children from its grip.
The arrest, which has been hailed as a major success, also led to the capture of several key figures involved in the trafficking ring. The operation marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to combat human trafficking in the region.
Police Commissioner Aliyu Abdulrahman expressed his approval of the operation, calling it a victory for the protection of vulnerable children. “Efforts are intensifying to ensure that those responsible face the full force of the law,” he said.
During questioning, Pastor Bernard reportedly admitted to trafficking at least 13 children, revealing that he had been involved in the illegal sale and purchase of children for various purposes, including forced labor and illegal adoption. Authorities stated that the syndicate primarily targeted families in vulnerable situations, exploiting their hardship to abduct children for profit.
Human trafficking remains a serious issue in Nigeria, with Plateau State being frequently identified as a hotspot due to high poverty rates and security challenges. UNICEF estimates that tens of thousands of Nigerian children are trafficked every year, with many being taken across borders to neighboring countries or beyond.
The rescued children have been placed in the care of child welfare services. Efforts are underway to reunite them with their families, while authorities continue to work on further investigations.
The crackdown has been described as just the beginning of a broader effort to dismantle trafficking networks operating in the region. Authorities are committed to prosecuting those responsible and preventing future trafficking incidents.