The Nigerian Navy has rescued two suspected victims of human trafficking in a renewed crackdown on transnational criminal networks operating along the country’s maritime corridors.
The victims, who were intercepted during an intelligence-led operation by the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry on July 17, have since been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for rehabilitation and further investigation.
According to the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the handover took place at NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Command in Ikeja on July 19 after the victims underwent documentation, biometric capture and other required procedures at the Western Naval Command Maritime Crime Investigation Desk.
The Navy said the operation highlights its growing efforts to disrupt human trafficking syndicates that exploit Nigeria’s land and maritime borders while ensuring rescued victims receive the protection and support they need.
It noted that the transfer was carried out in accordance with the Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures for handling victims of trafficking, allowing NAPTIP to commence rehabilitation and continue investigations aimed at identifying those behind the trafficking network.
The Service described the operation as another example of the strong collaboration between security agencies in combating organised crime and strengthening Nigeria’s internal security.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime domain, the Nigerian Navy said it will continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations and deepen inter-agency cooperation to dismantle human trafficking networks and other criminal enterprises threatening national security.