The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) reported a significant achievement in its efforts to combat human trafficking in Katsina, revealing the rescue of approximately 470 victims during the course of 2023.
Mr. Musa Aliyu, the NAPTIP Commander in Katsina, disclosed this information to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a statement provided on Saturday. He outlined that, alongside these rescues, the command successfully apprehended and prosecuted four individuals involved in human trafficking.
Throughout the year, the Katsina command dealt with 25 reported cases of human trafficking and an additional two cases related to Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP).
“In 2023, the command in Katsina rescued 470 victims of human trafficking, reuniting them with their respective families,” stated the NAPTIP Commander, emphasizing the critical nature of their intervention.
To address the needs of the rescued victims, the NAPTIP Katsina command is anticipating the delivery of rehabilitation items from the agency’s headquarters, facilitating the process of reintegrating these individuals into society.
Furthermore, Aliyu highlighted collaborative efforts with the International Centre for Migration on Policy Development (ICMPD), underscoring various initiatives aimed at raising awareness within border communities. Sensitization programs were conducted in conjunction with the Katsina government, targeting Religious and Traditional leaders, as well as youth populations in Mai’adua, Baure, and Mashi Local Government Areas.
As part of the comprehensive approach, the NAPTIP Katsina command, in collaboration with the ICMPD, organized free medical treatment for over 80 victims of human trafficking. Aliyu stressed the importance of addressing issues of trauma and sexual exploitation faced by these victims through such medical interventions.
The concerted efforts of NAPTIP and its partners aim not only to combat human trafficking but also to provide support, rehabilitation, and preventive measures to safeguard vulnerable communities.
