Suspected Human Trafficker Arrested in Sokoto, Two Libya-Bound Women Rescued

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Illela Border Command in Sokoto State, has apprehended a suspected human trafficker and rescued two female victims en route to Libya.

According to a statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Mohammed, on Wednesday, Feb. 12, Comptroller Tony Akuneme confirmed the arrest of the suspect, identified as Sirajo Illela, at his family residence in the Yar Kara area of Illela Local Government.

The two victims, Maryam Akinosi, 40, from Ogun State, and Olatunde Abidemi, 26, from Oyo State, were traveling without valid documents. Preliminary investigations indicated they were being trafficked to Libya.

“The suspect, Sirajo Illela, has been on the wanted list of both the Immigration and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for a long time.

“He is known for harbouring and supporting human trafficking through illegal routes in the Illela border,” he said.

While handing over the suspect and victims to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Comptroller Tony Akuneme reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) under the leadership of Comptroller General Kemi Nandap to combating human trafficking and the smuggling of migrants in Nigeria.