NAPTIP Rescues Nine Children from Traffickers in Kebbi, Reunites Them with Parents
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued nine children from traffickers, as part of a broader operation that saved 19 children from the clutches of human traffickers in Zuru town, Kebbi State. These children, initially taken from their parents under the false promise of receiving an education in Gusau, were tragically trafficked and sold into slavery in Calabar.
On Friday, NAPTIP’s Head in Kebbi State, Misbahu Iya Kaura, brought the rescued children to Governor Nasiru Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, where they were joyously reunited with their families in the Council Chamber.
Kaura explained that the children had been victims of a trafficking ring that operated in Zuru, where agents deceived parents into sending their children away for schooling in Gusau. From there, they were taken to Calabar and sold into slavery, with prices starting at N280,000. The traffickers even went so far as to change the children’s names to evade detection.
The nine children presented to the governor had already testified in court and were eager to return to their parents. Kaura praised the governor for his support, especially for donating an operational vehicle to NAPTIP and for advocating to have the Agency included in the monthly allowances of other security organizations.
Governor Idris condemned the crime of child trafficking, calling for intensified awareness campaigns. He emphasized that the government would prosecute all individuals involved in such activities, including parents who may be complicit.
“I strongly warn parents against being accomplices in child trafficking. Any parent found guilty of surrendering their children for monetary gain will face legal action,” Governor Idris declared.
In a gesture of immediate support, the governor announced a cash donation of N100,000 for each of the nine children, along with additional assistance for their parents and the District Head to help facilitate their safe return home. He also directed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) to ensure that NAPTIP receives monthly operational allowances alongside other security agencies.
