Akwa Ibom Hands Over 44 Rescued Ghanaian Trafficking Victims

The Akwa Ibom State Government has officially repatriated 44 Ghanaian nationals rescued from human trafficking operations within the state, marking a significant step in its ongoing crackdown on organised crime.

The victims, made up of 27 males and 17 females, were freed from illegal camps located in Umo Ekpo in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area and Ekpri Nsukara in Uyo Local Government Area. Authorities revealed that the individuals had been lured into Nigeria under false promises of better opportunities abroad.

During the handover ceremony, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting lives and ensuring a secure environment. She noted that the operation aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which prioritises safety and strengthened security systems.

Ibanga explained that the victims were subjected to harsh and degrading conditions after being deceived and held against their will. Following their rescue, the state government provided immediate care, rehabilitation, and support before facilitating their safe return to Ghana.

She emphasised that the success of the rescue mission reflects deliberate collaboration between the state government and security agencies, alongside sustained investments in security infrastructure aimed at combating trafficking, kidnapping, and related crimes.

Security agencies, including the Department of State Services, were credited for dismantling the trafficking network responsible for the illegal camps and securing the victims’ freedom.

One of the rescued individuals recounted losing a substantial amount of money after being deceived by traffickers and subsequently detained for weeks under difficult conditions.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Brigadier General Koko Essien (retd.), urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling for fraudulent promises, warning that traffickers often exploit trust and desperation.

A representative of the Ghana High Commission expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government for its swift intervention and assured that the victims would be reunited with their families. He also encouraged them to participate in awareness efforts aimed at preventing human trafficking.

State security officials further advised the victims to remain cautious in the future while reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration in tackling transnational crime.