Reports from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons indicate that they have detained over 115 suspected human traffickers and rescued 75 victims in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Rivers states.
The Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Emmanuel Awhen, shared these details in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Uyo.
Operating across Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Rivers states, the Zone has been active in combating human trafficking activities.
“From July 2023 to the present, we have apprehended 115 human traffickers in the zone and successfully rescued around 75 victims.
Out of these 75 rescued individuals, 25 have been equipped with skills in tailoring, hairdressing, barbing, and shoe making.
“The majority of rescued victims are housed in our shelter where we provide counseling, empowerment, and facilitate reuniting them with their families,” mentioned the NAPTIP commander.
He further stated that during this period, NAPTIP has taken 15 cases to court, resulting in three convictions, while 12 cases are awaiting resolution.
The zonal commander urged judges to prioritize human trafficking cases to discourage potential traffickers.
Awhen highlighted the prevalence of human trafficking in coastal communities within the zone.
These coastal areas have witnessed numerous cases of human trafficking victims being rescued.
“We call upon the public to contribute to the fight against human trafficking, as this responsibility should not rest solely on NAPTIP and the Federal Government.
“The agency requires the support and collaboration of all stakeholders to effectively combat this crime.
“Limited financial resources hinder our expansive awareness campaigns against human trafficking, especially in remote communities. Additionally, catering for victims has become increasingly costly,” he emphasized.
Awhen cautioned parents and guardians against falling for deceptive schemes where their children are taken under false pretenses for training or job placements.
In many instances, such individuals end up as victims of child labor or prostitution.
The zonal commander issued a stern warning to traffickers to cease such activities, underscoring that violators would face the full force of the law.
It is noted that the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is commemorated on July 30.
This year’s theme, “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” calls for intensified efforts to combat child trafficking.
Children constitute a significant portion of trafficking victims globally, with girls bearing a disproportionate impact,” Awhen articulated.
(NAN)