Two minors suspected to have been trafficked by their relatives have been recovered by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
A four-month-old girl named Aisha Shehu and an 11-year-old boy named Usman Kabiru were rescued from Abuja and Lagos, respectively, according to reports obtained by NewsNow.
Aminu Shira, the Gombe State Commander of NAPTIP, confirmed the successful rescue operations, emphasizing the agency’s dedication to safeguarding lives.
Shira revealed that the children were rescued following the apprehension of 16 suspects by the police in January. Subsequent investigations uncovered instances of child trafficking, baby sales, and sexual exploitation.
“On the 10th of January, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force Gombe State Command transferred 16 suspects involved in criminal conspiracy and child trafficking to NAPTIP Gombe State Command for further scrutiny and possible prosecution,” Shira explained.
He continued, “After thorough interviews and voluntary statements from the victims, Aisha Shehu and Usman Kabiru were located and brought to safety by NAPTIP operatives in Abuja and Lagos, respectively.”
“Our investigation revealed a clear case of child trafficking, baby sales, and sexual exploitation against the suspects,” Shira narrated.
Noting NAPTIP’s strong stance against trafficking, Shira mentioned that nine suspects have been formally charged for their alleged involvement in child trafficking, baby sales, and sexual exploitation. Their cases have been forwarded to the Federal and State Higher Court Gombe Judiciary Division for prosecution.
Shira emphasized that NAPTIP not only seeks the prosecution of perpetrators but also aims to rehabilitate and resettle victims.
He added, “Three victims have been supported with rehabilitation efforts. Two girls are undergoing a six-month tailoring skills training sponsored by the Command in Gombe, while a boy is now attending the Sheikh Jafar Memorial Primary School Arawa Gombe, with educational expenses covered by NAPTIP.”
“NAPTIP is fully committed to preventing exploitation of women and children, uplifting vulnerable individuals, and creating a safer society,” Shira concluded.