NAPTIP Arrests 120 Suspected Human Traffickers, Rescues Over 300 Victims in Ondo

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) says it has arrested at least 120 suspected human traffickers and rescued more than 300 victims in Ondo State since the agency began operations there in November 2023.

Speaking in Akure during an event marking the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Ondo State Commander Taiwo Adegboyega said many of the suspects are currently facing prosecution, while the agency has already secured convictions in several trafficking cases.

According to Adegboyega, the rescued victims include people trafficked within Nigeria and across international borders. He added that NAPTIP has strengthened collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and other security agencies to combat human trafficking.

The commander also disclosed that some unregistered travel agents allegedly involved in trafficking activities have been arrested, while investigations and prosecutions are ongoing.

At the event, the Civil Society Organisation Network on Migration and Development urged the Ondo State Government to appoint a Special Adviser on Migration to coordinate migration-related issues and improve support for returning migrants.

Speaking on this year's theme, "Trapped Behind the Scam," the network's representative, Franklin Oloniju, warned that fake job offers, fraudulent scholarships, deceptive travel opportunities, and other scams continue to expose vulnerable people to human trafficking. He also called for stronger reintegration programmes to help returnees rebuild their lives.

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