The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully disrupted a suspected human trafficking operation during a raid on a notable hotel located in the 33 Area of Onitsha, Anambra State. This action resulted in the apprehension of six suspects and the liberation of 17 individuals.
The raid, which occurred with the assistance of military personnel, saw the arrest of four suspected traffickers on-site. Additionally, two individuals believed to be involved in the illegal trade of babies in the South-East region were detained during related investigative efforts.
According to NAPTIP, among the rescued victims, four have tested positive for HIV and are currently receiving medical care and counselling from the agency, with the aid of volunteers from the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA).
The operation was initiated based on credible information received from a non- governmental source in Anambra State, raising alarms about underage girls allegedly being exploited at the hotel. Additional intel highlighted serious health concerns among the victims, prompting voluntary health screenings to be conducted after counselling.
Prior complaints from local residents about suspicious behavior associated with the hotel, which features approximately 45 rooms, had been reported. The establishment had a reputation for hosting men suspected of engaging in illicit activities involving minors.
During the raid, investigators found some victims in compromising positions with clients, while others were reportedly dressed in a provocative manner as they awaited customers. The victims indicated that they were recruited from various states, including Benue, Imo, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom, under false pretenses before being coerced into sex work.
These individuals also claimed they were forced to pay between ₦20,000 and ₦25,000 daily to their handler, often referred to as their 'Madam', after servicing multiple clients each day.
One rescued victim recounted being promised a legitimate job when lured to Onitsha, only to discover upon arrival that she was being forced into prostitution. Another victim asserted that after testing for HIV, their handler confiscated the provided medication and inflicted physical harm for attempting to seek medical help.
Responding to this troubling development, Binta Bello, the Director-General of NAPTIP, voiced her profound concern regarding the victims’ experiences and their worsening health issues. She praised the military and the Gender and Human Rights State Response Team associated with ANSACA for their prompt action and cooperation.
Bello emphasized that the denial of necessary medical care to these victims constitutes a criminal offense, confirming that NAPTIP has initiated efforts to locate the handler who fled the scene. She further stated that the hotel owner has been summoned for questioning as investigations continue.
The head of NAPTIP reiterated the agency's dedication to intensifying efforts against human trafficking, cautioning that 2026 would pose significant challenges for anyone involved in such activities.
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