The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has delivered a significant blow against child trafficking in the South-East region, uncovering an active child trafficking ring operating in Enugu State and successfully rescuing two victims in a carefully planned and executed enforcement operation that has sent a powerful warning to criminal networks exploiting Nigeria’s most vulnerable children.
The operation, carried out by NAPTIP operatives acting on credible intelligence, led to the dismantling of the trafficking network and the rescue of two children who had fallen prey to the syndicate’s criminal operations — bringing them to safety and into the care of NAPTIP’s victim support and rehabilitation services.
Suspects connected to the child trafficking ring have been taken into custody and are currently undergoing interrogation by NAPTIP investigators, with the agency working to establish the full scope of the network’s operations, identify additional victims, and trace any connections to broader regional or international trafficking syndicates.
NAPTIP’s Director General reiterated the agency’s absolute zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking and all forms of human exploitation — warning that perpetrators of these heinous crimes will face the full weight of the law and the most severe penalties available under Nigeria’s Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act.
The rescue operation in Enugu is part of NAPTIP’s intensified nationwide campaign to root out trafficking networks that prey on vulnerable children and families — particularly in communities where poverty, unemployment, and lack of awareness create fertile conditions for traffickers to operate with impunity.
Child rights advocates and civil society organisations have applauded NAPTIP’s swift action, calling on communities across Nigeria to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and cooperate fully with law enforcement in the fight against the scourge of child trafficking that continues to devastate families and communities across the country.
The two rescued victims are currently receiving medical, psychological, and social support from NAPTIP’s rehabilitation team as the agency works toward their safe reunification with their families.
Members of the public with information about trafficking activities are urged to contact NAPTIP through its toll-free helpline or the nearest agency office immediately.
All rights reserved ©2026 CDA News Nigeria.
For news tips or inquiries, contact us at info@cdanews.ng or visit our headquarters at 348 Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
