A group of officials from the Nigerian Immigration Service located in Jigawa State have stopped six individuals believed to be victims of human trafficking at the Babura Plantation Border Patrol Station, preventing their smuggling to Europe through Libya and the Niger Republic.
Arewa PUNCH remembers that not long ago, the Jigawa NAPTIP Command advised locals to stay alert against offenders taking advantage of naive and unaware people who, during the holiday season, present their journey as chances to go overseas, yet frequently result in human trafficking.
Our reporter learned that the individuals tried to cross the boundary secretly, yet the alert NIS officials stopped their efforts.
As stated by Mr. Abdulkadir Turajo, the commander of NAPTIP in Jigawa State, during his receipt of the detained persons from NIS on Tuesday in Dutse, the state capital, he revealed that the accused individuals include four women between the ages of 18 and 23 and two men ranging from 32 to 36 years old, originating from Ogun, Ondo, Imo, Lagos, and Enugu states.
As he stated, "The victims were stopped by NIS officials as they tried to cross the border, and we are working to find those who transported them," Turajo mentioned, promising a comprehensive inquiry and legal action against offenders.
Mr. Turajo pledged to the press that he would thoroughly pursue legal action and assist victims in their recovery, stating, "We will make sure victims get all required assistance and attention, and those at fault will be held accountable."
Nevertheless, the head of NAPTIP cautioned citizens to remain alert, as human traffickers take advantage of holiday travel to entice individuals.
"Check deals carefully and remain cautious; avoid being deceived by misleading assurances," he recommended.
"During the holiday period, it should not turn into a time for human trafficking," Turajo stressed, calling on people to remain vigilant.
Furthermore, the head of NAPTIP in Jigawa commended the actions of the NIS, Jigawa State Command led by its State Commandant, CIS T. A. Musa, in fighting against human trafficking.
"The partnership between NIS and NAPTIP has enhanced our initiatives against human trafficking," Turajo stated.
He also expressed gratitude to NIS for its continuous work, stating, "I praise the NIS Jigawa State Command led by CIS Musa for their commitment to combating human trafficking."
"This marks an important advancement, and we will continue from here," Turajo stated, pledging ongoing attention and collaboration with other organizations.
When discussing further details about the suspects, Mr Turajo mentioned that "the victims will receive assistance and care from NAPTIP, along with efforts toward rehabilitation and reintegrating them into society," noting that "we are striving to regain their self-respect and assurance."
Therefore, the head of NAPTIP in Jigawa State pointed out that "Smugglers focus on people who are at risk, using misleading assurances, frequently taking advantage of their hopelessness. Those affected were enticed with offers of improved living conditions, only to encounter unpredictability and peril."
Consequently, the head of NAPTIP calls on people to inform about unusual behavior, stating, "Your alertness could protect lives."
Previously, the head of the NIS in Jigawa State, T. A. Musa, stated, "We are dedicated to safeguarding our frontiers and defending citizens against human smuggling. I am happy to transfer these individuals to NAPTIP for additional inquiry and legal action."
The head of the NIS added, "The accused were trying to take advantage of the holiday period to transport these people to Europe. We will not allow this to happen."
CIS T.A. Musa further stated, "I praise our personnel for their alertness and commitment. We will keep collaborating with NAPTIP to fight against human trafficking in Jigawa State."
The attempt by Arewa PUNCH Correspondent to speak with those allegedly involved in human trafficking did not succeed, as they are presently being questioned by NAPTIP authorities, who are managing the case and working towards their return to their respective families.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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