The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the reported human trafficking of four minors from Adamawa State, who were intercepted en route to Nasarawa State.
Sa’adatu Galadima, the Nasarawa State Commandant of NAPTIP, disclosed the development while presenting two suspects allegedly involved in the trafficking operation on Thursday in Lafia, the state capital.
The suspects, identified as 33-year-old Asabe Bedan and 40-year-old Calpurnia Ogianfen, were reportedly intercepted by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) while traveling from Karu Local Government Area to Edo State with the minors.
Galadima revealed that preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to a larger network, stating that they had allegedly trafficked over 20 children from Adamawa to both Edo and Lagos states.
“The suspects were intercepted at Karu LGA on the 25th of February in an attempt to move the children to Edo State. With the full commencement of investigations, more actionable information would be uncovered to give room for prosecution,” she said.
The commandant also warned parents to be vigilant about the people their children interact with, noting that traffickers often operate within familiar environments. “I, therefore, urge parents to be wary of whom they relate with because human traffickers live among close relations, guardians, and the neighbourhood,” Galadima explained.
She further highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Nasarawa State, assuring that the command would step up raids and proactive measures to dismantle trafficking networks. “The agency has made significant strides in curbing human trafficking in the state, and the command will intensify its raid efforts to eradicate the deadly menace of human trafficking,” she added.
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Authorities are now focusing on gathering detailed evidence to facilitate prosecution against the suspects, while also tracing other potential victims who may have been exploited by the traffickers.
The operation underscores the persistent challenges faced in tackling human trafficking in Nigeria and the critical role of vigilance by families and communities in preventing such crimes.