Christabel Ndoeche
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has uncovered a suspected child trafficking case linked to orphanage activities in Enugu State, rescuing two minors allegedly sold under the guise of care arrangements.
In a statement on Wednesday shared via its official social media handle, the agency said it had commenced an investigation into the case involving a 51-year-old suspect, Thaddeus, who is accused of selling the children to his uncle, identified as Elies.
It stated that “the suspect, Thaddeus (51), is alleged to have been involved in the sale of two children to his uncle, Elies,” warning that the development “raises serious concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable minors under the guise of care arrangements.”
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the agency carried out a rescue operation in Enugu, leading to the recovery of the victims.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Agency carried out a rescue operation which led to the recovery of the two victims from Enugu State,” it said.
The agency added that “The children, whose identities are being protected, are currently in safe custody receiving necessary care and support in line with the Agency’s victim protection protocols.”
It noted that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network behind the incident.
Providing further update, NAPTIP said, “The case remains under active investigation as NAPTIP intensifies efforts to uncover the full extent of the trafficking network and ensure that all persons found culpable are brought to justice.”
It also urged members of the public to report suspicious trafficking-related activities.
The development comes amid intensified enforcement actions against trafficking networks nationwide.
In April, the agency intercepted 47 Nigerians at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Cairo, Egypt, in an operation conducted in collaboration with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The rescued individuals were placed in protective custody for profiling and support, while investigations continue to identify those behind the syndicate.
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