The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested 115 suspected human traffickers and rescued 75 victims in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Rivers states. Emmanuel Awhen, the Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, shared this information during an interview in Uyo on Tuesday.
“Between July 2023 and now, we’ve apprehended 115 human traffickers within the zone and rescued about 75 victims,” Awhen stated.
He added that out of the rescued victims, 25 have been empowered with skills in tailoring, hairdressing, barbing, and shoemaking.
“Most of the victims rescued are kept in our shelter, and we’ve counseled, empowered, and reunited them with their families,” he explained.
Awhen also noted that NAPTIP charged 15 cases to court, secured three convictions, and has 12 cases pending.
The zonal commander urged judges to prioritize human trafficking cases to deter other traffickers. He highlighted that coastal communities in the zone are hot spots for human trafficking, with many victims being rescued from these areas.
“We appeal to members of the public that this fight against human trafficking should not be left in the hands of NAPTIP and the Federal Government alone,” Awhen emphasized.
He called for support from all stakeholders, citing financial constraints that limit robust sensitization campaigns and the high cost of feeding victims.
Related Stories
- Nigerian Navy Says Its Patrol Team Arrested 8 Stowaways, Rescued 8 Human Trafficking Victims and 2 Drowning Fishermen
- Behind the Glamour – Lagos Fashion Show Hit By Rape, Extortion Allegations
Awhen advised “parents and guardians to be cautious of family members who claim they will help train or secure employment for their children, as many end up being used for child labor or prostitution.”
He warned traffickers to desist from such acts, stressing that “anyone found culpable, the full weight of the law would be applied on such.”
The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed on July 30, emphasizes “the need to accelerate actions to end child trafficking.”
This year’s theme is “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” highlighting the significant proportion of children trafficked worldwide, with girls being disproportionately affected.