NAPTIP cracks Human Trafficking ring in Onitsha, rescues 17 victims, Six arrested

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has dismantled a human trafficking operation at a hotel in Onitsha’s 33 Area, rescuing 17 victims and arresting six suspects, four of whom were apprehended at the hotel while two others were caught in related operations across the South-East.

The operation, carried out with support from the military and the Gender and Human Rights State Response Team under the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), revealed that four victims tested positive for HIV and are receiving medical care and counselling.

Investigations showed that victims, mostly underage girls, were lured from Benue, Imo, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom under false pretences of legitimate employment, only to be forced into prostitution and made to remit ₦20,000–₦25,000 daily to their handler, reportedly known as their “Madam.”

NAPTIP Director-General Binta Bello condemned the denial of medical care to the victims, describing it as a criminal act. She confirmed that a manhunt is ongoing for the fleeing handler, while the hotel owner has been invited for questioning.

Bello reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to intensifying its anti-trafficking operations, warning that 2026 would be a difficult year for traffickers.