The Delta State Police Command in Nigeria has rescued 23 female teenagers and arrested multiple suspects in the Ughelli area. This intervention sheds light on the persistent issue of human trafficking in the region and the efforts of law enforcement to combat it.
On June 15, 2024, acting on credible intelligence, the Delta State Police Command launched an operation targeting a human trafficking ring. The primary suspect, identified only as Chinyere, was reported to specialize in trafficking women from Eastern Nigeria to Delta State under false pretenses of employment.
Commissioner of Police Abaniwonda Olufemi, known for his zero-tolerance stance on human and child trafficking, directed the operation. CSP Aliyu Shaba, the Divisional Police Officer of Ekpan, led the investigative efforts.
According to SP Bright Edafe, the Command’s spokesperson, the trafficker lured victims by promising them jobs as salesgirls in restaurants. However, upon arrival in Ughelli, the victims discovered they were intended for prostitution.
One victim’s testimony revealed that she and two other young girls were deceived into leaving Abia State for Delta State, with promises of a monthly salary of N30,000 (approximately $65 USD). Upon reaching their destination, they found other teenagers in compromising situations and were informed of the true nature of their “employment.”
A combined team of surveillance officers raided the “Big Dafe Hotel” on Ughelli/Patani Road, where they arrested Chioma Edafe, 36, who runs the hotel, along with 35 others. Among those rescued were 23 teenagers, all victims of the trafficking operation.
While this operation marks a significant success, the main suspect, Chinyere, remains at large. The Delta State Police Command has launched a serious manhunt to apprehend her and potentially uncover more details about the trafficking network.
This case highlights the ongoing challenge of human trafficking in Nigeria, particularly the exploitation of young women and girls. It underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in combating such crimes.
The operation also raises questions about the socio-economic factors that make young people vulnerable to such schemes, including unemployment and poverty, which traffickers often exploit.
As the investigation continues, authorities are likely to focus on providing support and rehabilitation for the rescued victims while working to dismantle the broader trafficking network operating in the region.
This rescue operation serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of human trafficking and the crucial role of law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Credit: Punchng
