In a significant intervention against human trafficking, the Nigeria Immigration Service, under the purview of the Lagos Seaports and Marine Command, has successfully rescued five potential victims of human trafficking. The operation took place at the Pashi checkpoint within the Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State. Here are the key highlights from this news:
Successful Rescue Operation
Acting swiftly to combat the menace of human trafficking, the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos Seaports, and Marine Command carried out a rescue operation at the Pashi checkpoint. Five individuals believed to be potential victims of human trafficking were intercepted during the operation. The victims were found in the company of Mrs. Blessing Anireta, a 26-year-old woman, who lacked proper identification or a clear means of livelihood.
Investigation Unveils Trafficking Scheme
Comptroller Mohammed Saddiq, who leads the command, disclosed details of the preliminary investigation during a press conference. The victims, hailing from Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau states, were reportedly deceived with promises of legitimate employment opportunities in Mali, Benin Republic, and Cote d’Ivoire. Their unsuspecting nature as first-time travelers was exploited, and they revealed that a syndicate member in Lagos facilitated their transportation arrangements for the intended destinations.
Syndicate Member at Large
Although the operation was successful in rescuing the victims, the key syndicate member responsible for coordinating transportation arrangements remains at large. The immigration authorities have committed to tracking down this suspect and other members of the syndicate involved in the trafficking attempt. The victims, whose ages range from 15 to 23, recounted their ordeal and affirmed that they were deceived into embarking on the journey without parental consent. Furthermore, the investigations revealed that Anireta had intended to exploit her companions in prostitution within their intended countries of destination.
This impactful rescue operation underscores the dedication of the Nigeria Immigration Service in curbing human trafficking activities. The intercepted victims will be transferred to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation, as the authorities work diligently to dismantle the trafficking syndicate responsible for these nefarious activities.