The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has rescued a 6-year-old girl who was stolen from her parents in 2018.
The rescue took place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with the help of the Foundation for Justice Development and Peace.
The Zonal Commander of NAPTIP in Uyo, Mr. Emmanuel Awhen, confirmed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday. He said two suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.
“The two suspects are currently undergoing interrogations. They will be charged to court once investigations are completed,” Awhen stated.
He explained that NAPTIP received an intelligence report about the stolen girl, which led to her being found with a family in Uyo. “The girl was kept in our shelter for proper identification, and she has now been handed over to her biological parents,” he added.
Awhen also revealed that NAPTIP is investigating another case of illegal buying and selling of a two-month-old baby in the state.
He expressed concern about the increasing cases of child trafficking in Akwa Ibom and warned perpetrators to stop their activities or face legal consequences.
“Human trafficking is a crime against humanity, and NAPTIP is committed to fighting it. We will continue to educate people about the dangers of child trafficking. It is senseless and barbaric, and we must work together to discourage it,” Awhen emphasized.
The agency is determined to continue its efforts to stop child trafficking and protect vulnerable children in Akwa Ibom State.
