NAPTIP Recovers Two Trafficked Children in Gombe, Nigeria

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Gombe State, Nigeria, has recovered two trafficked children - a 4-month-old girl named Aisha Shehu and an 11-year-old boy named Usman Kabiru - from Abuja and Lagos, respectively. The children were allegedly trafficked by their relations.

The recovery followed the arrest of 16 suspects by the police in January 2024 for criminal conspiracy and child trafficking. After investigation, NAPTIP confirmed it was a case of child trafficking, sale of babies, and sexual exploitation. Nine suspects have been charged and their cases filed in the Federal and State Higher Court Gombe Judiciary Division for prosecution.

Why this matters: Child trafficking remains a serious issue in Nigeria and globally, with vulnerable children exploited for labor, sexual abuse, and illegal adoptions. The successful recovery of trafficked children and prosecution of perpetrators by agencies like NAPTIP are vital steps in combating this heinous crime and protecting the rights of children.

NAPTIP is not only interested in prosecuting the suspects but also in rehabilitating and reintegrating the victims. Two female victims have been enrolled in a 6-month tailoring skills acquisition program, and a male victim has been enrolled in a primary school, with NAPTIP sponsoring the costs.

"NAPTIP is committed to preventing the exploitation of women and children, rehabilitating victims, and creating a safer society," stated a NAPTIP spokesperson. The agency remains dedicated to preventing all forms of exploitation against women and children and uplifting the vulnerable in the community. The successful recovery of the trafficked children in Gombe is evidence of NAPTIP's ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and protect the rights of Nigeria's most vulnerable populations.

Key Takeaways

• NAPTIP rescued 2 trafficked children in Gombe, Nigeria.
• 16 suspects arrested for child trafficking, sale, and exploitation.
• 9 suspects charged and cases filed for prosecution.
• NAPTIP providing rehabilitation and reintegration support for victims.
• NAPTIP committed to preventing exploitation and protecting vulnerable populations.