Poice in Akwa Ibom have successfully rescued seven victims of human trafficking and arrested four suspects involved in the criminal network.
The State Police Command spokesperson, Timfon John, explained that the operation began with a coordinated stop-and-search along Ikot Ekpene–Aba Road after reports of a vehicle suspected of transporting trafficked persons.
He said four victims were immediately rescued and the driver arrested.
John said subsequent investigations led the police to Itam and Ibaka in Oron Local Government Area, where three additional victims were rescued and three more suspects taken into custody.
This brought the total to seven rescued victims and four suspects arrested.
The victims Included Wohabu (F), 18, Cotonou, Benin Republic, Fusina Seru (F), 20, Cotonou, Benin Republic
Mulica Ismali (F), 20, Oyo State, Nigeria
Saidat Ismali (F), 19, Oyo State, Nigeria
Safura Ismali (F), 20, Oyo State, Nigeria
Latif Ali (M), 19, Cotonou, Benin Republic.
Suspects in custody are Udeme Jacob (F), 20, Mbo LGA
Effiong Ekop (M), Ibiono Ibom LGA
John Okon (M), Mbo LGA
Ndukwe Ogbonnaya (F), Bende LGA, Abia State
The police revealed the syndicate specialised in recruiting and transporting young people across borders for exploitation.
Intelligence also indicated that one of the ringleaders had previously escaped via waterways to Cameroon and Gabon with some victims.
John said nvestigation is ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.
The police have urged residents to stay vigilant and provide information to strengthen community safety and protect vulnerable persons.
