The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has taken delivery of 105 Nigerians rescued from cybercrime syndicates in Ghana following a coordinated operation against criminal networks in the West African nation.
In a statement issued by Vincent Adekoye, Head of NAPTIP’s Press and Public Relations Unit, the agency disclosed that the operation was coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) after Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority raised an alarm.
The alert led to the participation of Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies in the rescue operation.
NAPTIP explained that Ghanaian authorities rescued a total of 119 Nigerians during the exercise. Of this number, 105 have been returned to Nigeria, while arrangements were still being completed for the remaining 14 at the time of the announcement.
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government while receiving the returnees, NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Lami Adamu Bello, assured them of their safety and appealed for calm as the government commenced profiling and reintegration processes.
Bello reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity and welfare of the rescued Nigerians, adding that each individual would receive the necessary assistance according to their specific needs and circumstances.
Several Nigerian agencies participated in the operation, including the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and other relevant partners also contributed to the exercise.
NAPTIP praised the Ghanaian authorities, particularly the Cyber Security Authority and Ghana Immigration Service, alongside the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency, for their support in facilitating the operation.
The agency also recognised the roles played by ONSA, Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies, and other partners in ensuring the successful execution of the exercise.
According to NAPTIP, the development highlights the Federal Government’s determination to protect Nigerians from human trafficking, exploitation, and the risks associated with irregular migration.
The agency further stated that it would continue to strengthen collaboration with national and international partners to tackle human trafficking and related forms of exploitation. It added that rescued individuals would be provided with appropriate screening, protection, and support.
NAPTIP also warned Nigerians to exercise caution when considering employment offers, scholarship opportunities, and other promises of better living conditions abroad without conducting proper verification.
It advised prospective migrants to be vigilant about offers featuring unrealistic promises, unclear job descriptions, or questionable recruitment processes, noting that such arrangements could expose them to exploitation and criminal activities.
