The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has rescued several children from an orphanage in Kagini, Bwari Area Council, amid concerns over their welfare and alleged irregularities in the adoption process.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, reported by the National Television Authority (NTA), the FCTA confirmed that the operation was conducted by the FCT Department of Child Development, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), along with other security and social welfare agencies.

The statement revealed that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to rescue and monitor adopted children within the FCT, some of whom had reportedly been brought from Benue State.

“Some of the rescued children have been identified and placed under protective custody, while arrangements are being made to provide them with medical care, safety, and psychological support,” the statement said.

The operation followed weeks of covert investigations led by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, under the direction of Dr. Idris Attah, the Director of Child Development. The investigations were prompted by concerns about the orphanage’s operations and the conditions of the children in its care.

Upon arrival at the facility, officials discovered that the orphanage’s proprietress had fled just hours before the operation. Her disappearance is now suspected to be linked to the ongoing investigation and potential violations of adoption and child protection laws.

“The proprietress’ escape raises questions about possible illegal activities surrounding the adoption process,” the statement noted.

The FCTA has reiterated its commitment to upholding the Child Rights Act and ensuring that the adoption process is transparent and lawful. It also warned that any individuals found guilty of violations would face legal action.

Investigations are ongoing as security agencies work to locate the suspect and uncover the full scope of the orphanage’s operations.