NAPTIP rescues 19 trafficked children in Cross River

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) claims to have rescued 19 trafficked children from Kebbi in Calabar, the Cross River capital.

Speaking at a press briefing at the government headquarters in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris commended NAPTIP and security agencies for the rescue.

“As a government, we remain committed to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that our children grow up in a safe and secure environment,” Idris was quoted as saying by NAN.

“The rescue of 19 Kebbi children, victims of trafficking under the guise of education, demonstrates our unwavering determination to fight against human trafficking and all forms of exploitation.

“I assure you that we will provide you with the care and support necessary to help you recover from this traumatic experience. You are not alone and we will do everything in our power to keep you safe.”

Misbahu Kaura, NAPTIP commander in Kebbi, said an arrest in early July led to the release of 15 children.

“The interrogation of a suspect, arrested for trafficking four children, enabled us to rescue 15 other children, aged between four and six years in Calabar,” Kaura said.

“The man has been engaging in this heinous crime of child trafficking since 2022.”