Fifty-two individuals, believed to be victims of human trafficking, were released to the Zamfara State Government by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
These people were stopped while traveling towards Abuja, where they were reportedly scheduled to work in mines.
Originating from the Anka and Talata-Mafara regions, these individuals were initially detained by the Nigerian military. Subsequently, they were transferred to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further inquiry. The alleged coordinator of this operation, known as Bilyaminu, is currently held by the DSS.
Ishaq Anka, the head of Zamfara State’s agency dedicated to substance abuse control and the prevention of human trafficking, stated that the group was deceived with promises of employment and financial compensation.
“Their circumstances are evident; they possess neither funds nor resources. Especially during this fasting season, it is distressing to see them subsisting on a single daily meal and water,” Anka expressed.
He clarified that a three-day investigation preceded the handover of the individuals to the state.
“Following their apprehension, a three-day investigative period took place, leading to their transfer to the Department of State Services for detailed examination. Upon completing their findings, the DSS then transferred the victims to NAPTIP in Abuja. From there, NAPTIP notified us of their intent to repatriate these individuals to the state government,” he explained.
Hamza Shuaibu, one of the individuals involved, offered a defense of Bilyaminu, asserting that he was merely attempting to secure employment for them.
“He was helping us. We know the government is doing everything to protect its citizens, and we thank the Zamfara State Government for rescuing us. We appeal for the release of our leader, Bilyaminu, because he did not violate the law,” he stated.
The Zamfara State Government issued a cautionary message to its citizens, particularly those residing in rural areas, urging them to be wary of deceptive offers promising improved living conditions in other locations.
