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The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has dismantled a suspected trafficking network, arresting five individuals and rescuing 24 young victims in a major sting operation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The operation, which was directly supervised by NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, followed credible intelligence on the activities of a syndicate allegedly ferrying Nigerians to the Middle East and North Africa under false pretenses.
Confirming the breakthrough, NAPTIP spokesperson Vincent Adekoye disclosed that a retired senior security officer, described as a “key player” in the trafficking ring, was among those taken into custody.
“This arrest is a major breakthrough because the suspect has long been identified as one of the masterminds behind trafficking routes across Nigeria,” Adekoye stated.
According to the agency, the syndicate had been recruiting from multiple states, particularly in the South-West, and sending their victims to countries such as Iraq, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Afghanistan.
The victims, mostly between the ages of 15 and 26, were said to have been deceived with promises of lucrative employment and a better life abroad.
One of the rescued girls narrated how her parents encouraged her to accept the offer, believing she was on her way to Europe.
Another victim, visibly distraught after learning the true dangers of human trafficking, revealed that her father had pressured her into the ill-fated journey.
Bello, in a strong-worded statement, condemned the growing activities of illegal recruiters who exploit the vulnerability of young Nigerians.
She assured that NAPTIP would expand surveillance beyond airports to motor parks and coastal routes, often used by traffickers.
“We will not relent. These criminals will face justice, and every rescued victim will receive proper rehabilitation and reintegration support,” the DG vowed.
The agency confirmed that the arrested suspects are in custody and would be prosecuted in line with Nigeria’s anti-trafficking laws.
Meanwhile, the victims are receiving counseling as part of rehabilitation efforts before being reunited with their families.