NAPTIP Rescues 15 From Suspected Online Trafficking Syndicate In Nasarawa
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued 15 persons, including foreign nationals, from a suspected human trafficking syndicate allegedly operating under the guise of an online marketing company in Nasarawa State.
NAPTIP disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday through its official X handle, noting that the operation was conducted on May 7, 2026, by officers from its Investigation Department and the Intelligence and International Cooperation Unit.
The agency said the victims were rescued during an operation carried out in Keffi and Karu Local Government Areas following credible intelligence on suspicious activities linked to fraudulent online marketing operations.
According to the agency, preliminary investigations revealed that the victims comprised four females and 11 males. Among the male victims, three were identified as Nigerians, while the others were foreign nationals.
The agency said findings indicated that the suspects allegedly used the online marketing company as a cover to recruit and harbour unsuspecting persons in conditions suspected to be connected to human trafficking, cyber-related exploitation, and other organised criminal activities.
NAPTIP described the incident as a serious security and humanitarian concern, stressing that the deceptive recruitment methods employed by the suspects exposed victims to various forms of exploitation.
The agency added that investigations were ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network and arrest other collaborators linked to the syndicate.
NAPTIP also reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking and urged members of the public to report suspicious recruitment activities and movements within their communities to relevant authorities.
