NIS intercepts six trafficked persons at Niger border

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A team of Nigerian Immigration Service personnel in Jigawa State has intercepted six suspected trafficking victims at the Babura Plantation Border Patrol Base, foiling an attempt to smuggle them to Europe via Libya and Niger Republic.

Arewa PUNCH recalls that only recently, the Jigawa NAPTIP Command warned residents to be cautious of criminals exploiting innocent and unsuspecting individuals who, during the festive period, disguise their travel gesture as opportunities abroad, but which often leads to human trafficking.

Our correspondent gathered that the suspects were attempting to cross the border undetected, but the vigilant NIS officers thwarted their plans.

According to NAPTIP Jigawa State Commander, Mr Abdulkadir Turajo, who, while receiving the intercepted individuals from NIS on Tuesday in Dutse, the state capital, disclosed that the suspects, comprising four females aged 18-23 and two males aged 32-36, hail from Ogun, Ondo, Imo, Lagos, and Enugu states.

According to him, “The victims were intercepted by NIS officers while attempting to cross the border, and we’re working to identify the traffickers involved,” Turajo said, pledging thorough investigation and prosecution of culprits.

Mr Turajo assured the media of a diligent prosecution and rehabilitation of victims, saying, “We’ll ensure that the victims receive all the necessary support and care, and those responsible will face justice.”

However, the NAPTIP commander warned the public to be vigilant, as traffickers exploit festive season travels to lure victims.

“Verify offers and stay safe, don’t fall prey to false promises,” he advised.

“The festive season must not become a trafficking season,” Turajo emphasised, urging citizens to be cautious.

Moreso, the NAPTIP Jigawa boss applauded the efforts of the NIS, Jigawa State Command under the leadership of its State Commandant, CIS T. A. Musa, in combating trafficking.

“The collaboration between NIS and NAPTIP has strengthened our efforts to combat human trafficking,” Turajo said.

He also thanked NIS for its relentless efforts, saying, “I commend the NIS Jigawa State Command under CIS Musa’s leadership for their dedication to fighting human trafficking.”

“This is a significant breakthrough, and we’ll build on it,” Turajo said, promising continued vigilance and cooperation with other agencies.

While detailing more on the suspects, Mr Turajo stated that “the victims will be receiving support and care from NAPTIP, with plans for rehabilitation and reintegration,” adding that “We’re working to restore their dignity and confidence.”

Accordingly, the NAPTIP boss in Jigawa state highlighted that “Traffickers target vulnerable individuals with false promises, often exploiting their desperation. These victims were lured with promises of better lives, but faced uncertainty and danger.”

The NAPTIP commander, therefore, urges citizens to report suspicious activities, saying, “Your vigilance can save lives.”

Earlier, the NIS boss in Jigawa State, T. A. Musa, said, “We are committed to securing our borders and protecting Nigerians from human trafficking. I’m pleased to hand over these suspects to NAPTIP for further investigation and prosecution.”

The NIS boss further stated, “The suspects were attempting to exploit the festive season to smuggle these individuals to Europe. We won’t let them succeed.”

CIS T.A. Musa also said, “I commend our officers for their vigilance and dedication. We’ll continue to work with NAPTIP to combat human trafficking in Jigawa State.”

Efforts by Arewa PUNCH Correspondent to interview the suspected trafficked persons were unsuccessful as they are currently undergoing security interrogation by NAPTIP officials, who are handling the case and preparing for their eventual reintegration into their families.

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