NIGERIA: Police Dismantle Two Human Trafficking Syndicates, Arrest 11, Rescue Victims

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Nigeria Police Force has successfully crushed two major human trafficking networks operating across multiple states, arresting 11 suspects and rescuing several victims.

The victims rescued include children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals.

In a statement issued on Monday by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police described the operations as bold and coordinated efforts in the fight against human trafficking and transnational crime.

The first operation was carried out by operatives of the Zone-13 Police Command, following credible intelligence on a child trafficking and baby factory syndicate with deep roots in Enugu and Anambra States.

Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56). According to police, the suspects confessed to involvement in child theft, illegal adoptions, and operating unlicensed clinics used as baby factories.

Victims rescued from the syndicate include a seven-month-old infant, a four-year-old child, and two heavily pregnant women from Ebonyi State, who were allegedly held captive and forced to deliver babies for illegal sale.

The police noted that the victims were found in a remote village and were rescued without injury. They are now receiving medical attention and psychosocial support, while manhunt efforts continue for other fleeing suspects.

In a related development, the Ondo State Police Command rescued a Ghanaian national, David Angerinya, who was trafficked into Nigeria under false promises of employment and travel opportunities.

The rescue followed a formal petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja and led to the arrest of three suspects identified as Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix.

Investigations revealed that the suspects are part of a larger international trafficking ring targeting West Africans with fake travel offers, particularly to countries like Canada.

Further police action uncovered 39 additional Ghanaian nationals who had also been trafficked by the group.

Many had expired or no travel documents and were found in poor and exploitative conditions. They are currently receiving medical care.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers involved for their professionalism and swift action, reaffirming the Force’s zero tolerance for child exploitation and cross-border trafficking.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to nearby police commands.

The Nigeria Police said it remains committed to safeguarding the rights of vulnerable populations and will continue to dismantle criminal networks across the country.