The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested two suspects and launched an investigation into the alleged trafficking of minors into Nasarawa State.
The suspects, identified as Asabe Bedan (33) and Calpurnia Ogianfen (40), were apprehended by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State while allegedly transporting four minors from Adamawa State.
According to the Nasarawa State Commandant of NAPTIP, Sa’adatu Galadima, the suspects were intercepted on February 25 while attempting to move the children to Edo State. She explained that the operation was carried out following intelligence that the minors were being trafficked across states under suspicious circumstances.
Galadima further revealed that preliminary investigations suggest the suspects may be part of a wider trafficking network. Early findings indicate that more than 20 children may have been trafficked by the same individuals from Adamawa to Edo and Lagos states.
The agency said a detailed investigation has now commenced to uncover the full extent of the alleged trafficking operation and identify other possible collaborators involved in the illegal activity. Authorities also noted that the investigation could lead to further arrests and prosecution of those linked to the suspected syndicate.
NAPTIP urged parents and guardians to be vigilant and cautious about individuals who promise better opportunities for children, warning that traffickers often operate within communities and sometimes exploit trust among neighbours, relatives, or acquaintances.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against human trafficking, stressing that it will continue to work with other security agencies to rescue victims and dismantle networks involved in the exploitation of minors across Nigeria.
Human trafficking remains a major concern in several parts of the country, with authorities repeatedly warning that vulnerable children are often targeted for forced labour, illegal adoption, or other forms of exploitation. NAPTIP said efforts are ongoing to strengthen enforcement measures and protect children from such crimes.
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