NAPTIP arrests 8 for child trafficking, rescue 5 victims

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Makurdi Zonal Command, has dismantled a child trafficking syndicate, rescuing five victims and apprehending eight suspects.

Bai Gloria Iveren, the Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Makurdi Zonal Command, stated on Saturday that the operation followed a distress call from a mother seeking her twins, only to discover they were allegedly sold in December 2023.

She said NAPTIP operatives conducted meticulous surveillance and rescue operations across Makurdi metropolis during which the investigation unveiled a modus operandi wherein the syndicate targeted vulnerable homes, including IDP camps, posing as helpers for education sponsorship.

Iveren explained that the suspects exploited the trust of unsuspecting families, then acquired children and subsequently sold them for sums ranging between N900,000 and N350,000 per child while disguising the transactions as adoptions.

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“Among the arrested suspects are an 80-year-old woman, Innocent Josephine, and a 56-year-old woman, Ude Rosaline, both identified as key players in the criminal network.

“Additional members include Mr. Samuel Takura (50), Mr. Williams Minde (35), Mrs. Celina Obiasogu (52), Mrs. Virginia Okonkwo (50), Mrs. Anthonia Onura (60), and Mrs. Ede Sunday Ngozi (52). Ongoing efforts are in place to apprehend Mama Nnamdi, who remains at large,” the NAPTIP commander said.

She added that all rescued victims had been reunited with their families, and legal proceedings against the suspects were underway.

She further urged the public to exercise caution when approached by individuals offering assistance with child education, emphasizing the prevalence of buying and selling of children under the guise of adoption.

Iveren advised those seeking to adopt a child to contact the state Ministry of Women Affairs for proper guidance and should stop transacting with criminal elements.