The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued approximately 470 victims of human trafficking in Katsina, according to the NAPTIP Commander in the state, Mr Musa Aliyu. He made this announcement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday.
Mr Aliyu further disclosed that his command had successfully arrested and convicted four human traffickers within the year. Additionally, they received 25 cases of human trafficking and two cases of Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP).
“The command in Katsina rescued 470 victims of human trafficking in 2023 and reunited them with their respective families,” said the NAPTIP commander.
To support the rehabilitation of these trafficked victims, the command is expecting some rehabilitation items from the NAPTIP headquarters.
In collaboration with the International Centre for Migration on Policy Development (ICMPD), NAPTIP has organized several sensitization programs for border communities. These programs aimed to educate and raise awareness about the dangers and consequences of human trafficking.
“We also carried out sensitization programs in conjunction with the Katsina government for Religious and Traditional leaders, as well as youths in Mai’adua, Baure, and Mashi Local Government Areas,” said Aliyu.
The commander also highlighted that the ICMPD facilitated free medical treatment for over 80 victims of human trafficking in the state. The medical outreach aimed to address issues of trauma and sexual exploitation experienced by the victims.
These efforts by NAPTIP in collaboration with local authorities and international organizations are crucial in combating the menace of human trafficking and providing support to victims in Katsina.
