The Kano Zonal Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has announced the successful rescue of 285 victims and the arrest of 22 human traffickers in 2024.
In a statement made on Thursday, the Zonal Commander revealed that the victims rescued include 78 males, 97 females, and 110 children, aged between seven and 42. Specifically, 64 boys and 46 girls were among the children saved.
Among the rescued individuals, 53 were identified as victims of human trafficking, while 232 others were survivors of sexual abuse and gender-based violence, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by these individuals.
Following their rescue, the victims received counseling and rehabilitation services prior to being reunited with their families. Additionally, 52 individuals were empowered with kits designed to help them reintegrate into society successfully.
The Zonal Command reported the arrest of 22 suspects involved in trafficking, comprising eight males and 14 females. Over the review period, the command received a total of 211 cases related to both external and internal human trafficking, which included issues such as child abuse, child labor, and other violations under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act.
Furthermore, the command achieved 15 convictions during this period, which included one foreign national. Among those convicted, there were 13 males and two females.
In an effort to raise awareness, the command carried out 88 sensitization programs across various platforms, including radio, television, schools, and community events, emphasizing the dangers of human trafficking and related abuses.
Additionally, they successfully profiled 720 migrant returnees from the Niger Republic, individuals who had sought better opportunities abroad.
The Zonal Commander urged for the collaboration of all stakeholders to combat human trafficking and cautioned Nigerians against undertaking perilous overseas journeys under the guise of seeking greener pastures. Parents were advised to protect their children from exploitation and to remain vigilant in reporting any suspicious activities related to human trafficking in their communities.
