NIS Captures 522 Human Traffickers Alongside Victims
Comptroller General, Mrs Caroline Adepoju, confirms that the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has arrested no fewer than 522 human traffickers and their victims in 2023.
Adepoju, who made this known while briefing newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja on activities lined up to mark International Migrants Day on Dec. 18, said the traffickers and victims were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
She described the smuggling of migrants as a serious transnational crime that posed significant challenges to governments around the world, including Nigeria which is being used by traffickers as a country of origin, transit and destination for migrants.
Adepoju said that the illicit trade not only exploited vulnerable individuals and put their lives at risk but also undermined the integrity of national borders and security.
Adepoju, however, said that preventive efforts were crucial in addressing the root causes of migrant smuggling.
Adepoju said technologies like biometric identifications, surveillance cameras at key borders, and advanced Passenger Information Systems, were emplaced by the Service to deter the smuggling of migrants across Nigerian borders.
Adepoju urged all stakeholders including government agencies, Civil Society Organisations, the private sector and the media, to actively contribute to the fight against human trafficking.
