The Nigerian Navy has handed over two rescued victims of suspected human trafficking to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), reinforcing ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable persons.
The victims were formally transferred to NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Command in Ikeja after being rescued during a targeted anti-human trafficking operation by the Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry.
In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Navy said the handover followed established procedures for handling trafficking victims.
“In line with the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedures (HSOP) for the handling of victims of trafficking, the rescued individuals were first taken to the Western Naval Command Maritime Crime Investigation Desk, where they underwent comprehensive documentation, biometric capture, and other necessary administrative procedures before being formally transferred to NAPTIP for rehabilitation, protection, and further investigation.”
Folorunsho said the successful operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime while protecting vulnerable persons.
He noted that the operation also reflects the Navy’s collaboration with relevant government agencies in dismantling human trafficking networks and strengthening Nigeria’s national security framework.
“It also reflects the Service’s continued collaboration with relevant government agencies in dismantling human trafficking networks and strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.”
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and inter-agency cooperation aimed at preventing human trafficking, disrupting criminal syndicates and ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment.
Author
