The Akwa Ibom State Government handed over 44 Ghanaian nationals to officials of the Ghana High Commission on Friday following their rescue from human trafficking camps across the state. As reported by ALO360, the victims comprised 27 males and 17 whom security agents freed from captivity in separate operations.
Rescue Operation Uncovers Trafficking Camps
Security operatives rescued the victims from camps located at Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, and Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo Local Government Area. Princess Emem Ibanga, the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, explained that traffickers had defrauded and coerced the victims into traveling to Akwa Ibom with false promises of lucrative employment opportunities in Europe.
Furthermore, Ibanga disclosed that the victims endured unhealthy conditions throughout their captivity. Gideon Yeboah, one of the victims, stated, “Traffickers defrauded me of 30,000 cedis and held me hostage since February 25.” Subsequently, state authorities provided immediate care and support to the rescued nationals before initiating repatriation protocols.
Officials Hand Over Victims to Ghanaian Authorities
During the formal handover ceremony, Princess Emem Ibanga presented the victims to Leslie Lawson, an official of the Ghana High Commission. Lawson expressed profound appreciation to the state government for the rescue effort and the humane treatment of the victims. He assured officials that authorities would reunite the victims with their families upon their return to Ghana.
Additionally, Lawson urged the victims to participate actively in awareness campaigns organized by Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports. These campaigns target human trafficking and irregular migration across the West African region.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Meanwhile, Princess Emem Ibanga emphasized that the successful operation reflected the deliberate commitment of Governor Umo Eno to safeguard lives. She cited the ARISE Agenda of the current administration which prioritizes security of lives and property through sustained investment in security infrastructure.”This successful operation is not an isolated achievement,” Ibanga stated. “It reflects the deliberate and strategic commitment of Governor Umo Eno towards safeguarding lives and maintaining a secure environment for all residents.”
Moreover, she commended the Department of State Services and other security agencies for dismantling the trafficking syndicate. Brigadier General Koko Essien (retd.), the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, echoed these sentiments. He urged citizens to exercise caution regarding unrealistic offers from acquaintances or strangers.
