Benin: the government responds after the interception of 17 minors on their way to Côte d’Ivoire.

The case of the 17 minors intercepted in Aplahoué while heading to Côte d’Ivoire continues to spark reactions. Following the announcement of their interception by the Beninese authorities on May 28, the government officially spoke out through a radio-televised statement from the Ministry of Family and Social Action.

For the record, the minors, aged 12 to 17 and from several departments in Benin, were discovered on a bus bound for Côte d’Ivoire during a check at the Hounsahoué border post in the commune of Aplahoué. The operation involved the Republican Police, social services, as well as judicial and administrative authorities from the Couffo department.

In its reaction, the government first praised the mobilization of various actors that prevented these children from continuing their journey. The ministry particularly paid tribute to the “responsiveness and perfect collaboration between the Republican Police, social services, local authorities, and judicial and administrative bodies,” emphasizing that this coordinated action was able to “ensure the safety of these children.”

According to the authorities, this intervention is proof of the effectiveness of the mechanisms put in place to protect children against trafficking networks and irregular movements. The statement thus affirms that “this intervention demonstrates the effectiveness of the national child protection system and the sustained efforts of the Government in the fight against trafficking and irregular cross-border mobility of children.”

The government also sought to reassure the public regarding the situation of the minors involved. “The situation is under control,” stated the ministry, specifying that the children receive “appropriate protection and care for their reintegration into a safe environment.” The authorities even revealed that one of the children is currently participating in the primary school certificate exams (CEP) in Lokossa.

Furthermore, the ministry announced that “legal proceedings have been initiated so that those involved can be held accountable for their actions in accordance with the laws of the Republic.” This statement reflects the authorities’ commitment to shed light on the circumstances of this movement and to sanction any potential culprits.

In light of this situation, the government calls on parents, communities, and all citizens to remain vigilant. It urges anyone who witnesses a situation putting a child in danger to alert the competent services or to contact the dedicated assistance hotline for children at 138.

In conclusion, the executive reaffirms its determination to combat child trafficking “in all its forms” and reminds that “the cross-border movement of children is regulated in the Republic of Benin.”