A coordinated overnight raid across the Jos–Bukuru metropolis has led to the rescue of dozens of minors allegedly trapped in sexual exploitation, drug abuse, and trafficking, exposing what officials described as a disturbing reflection of societal failure.
The operation was carried out by the Plateau State Task Force Committee on Human Trafficking, comprising the Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP, Nigeria Immigration Service, NACTAL, NDLEA, NSCDC, and the Nigeria Police Force, all of Plateau State Command. The team raided brothels, hotels, and motels across the metropolis.
During the exercise, young girls aged 11 to 17 were rescued, including persons living with disabilities (deaf and non-verbal), a breastfeeding mother, and a pregnant young woman.
Preliminary investigations revealed a troubling pattern of alleged drugging and sexual exploitation of underaged girls, many of whom should have been in school but were instead found in unsafe environments late at night.
Addressing members of the task force, the Chairman of the Committee and Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Plateau State, Hon. Barr. Philemon Audu Daffi, described the situation as a painful indictment of society.
“What we are seeing is a mirror of what our society has become. Many of these young people did not choose this path freely. Insecurity, economic hardship, broken homes, and irresponsible parenting have all contributed to pushing them into vulnerable situations,” he said.
Barr. Daffi urged operatives to act strictly within the law, stressing the need for fairness and conscience. He warned against compromise, insisting that justice would prevail regardless of status or connections.
“We do not care whose son or whose father is involved. What matters is doing what is right,” he added.Speaking on behalf of NACTAL, Mrs. Vivien Ebere Festuu said the exercise was aimed at safeguarding the lives, wellbeing, and future of underaged children increasingly exposed to drugs, sexual exploitation, and trafficking. She called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children’s safety.
The Secretary of the Task Force Committee, Barr. David Nenfwang Yilji, expressed optimism that the intervention would have long-term positive impact, while issuing a stern warning to hotel and lodge operators.
“Any establishment found harboring underaged persons will be shut down by the government,” he said.
The operation covered several locations including Jos Hotel, Plapoly Hotel, Stefans Hotel, Plateau Central Hotel, Puji West of Mines Hotel, Summit Hotel, Polo De Glit, King Step, Garden Palace, Bolinco, Jossy Royal, and People’s Hotel across Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas.
As of the time of filing this report, the rescued victims were undergoing screening and investigation, after which appropriate rehabilitation and support measures are expected to be provided by the government.
Officials say the raid marks the beginning of a sustained crackdown on networks exploiting vulnerable children, while calling on families and communities to reflect on their moral and social responsibilities.
