NIS operatives intercept 22 Nigerians on the way to Libya in Katsina

By Aminu Daura

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have intercepted 22 suspected victims of human trafficking at an uncompleted building in Mai-Bara village, Zango Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The victims were allegedly being trafficked through irregular routes to Libya and subsequently to Europe in search of better economic opportunities.

The Jibia Border Command of NIS intercepted victims, comprising 11 females and 11 males at the location identified as a black spot point for irregular migrants preparing for onward movement.

The Comptroller of the command, Mr Haruna Zakirai who disclosed this on Friday in Daura said the victims from different parts of the country, including Lagos, Osun, Rivers, Kwara, Katsina, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

He said the suspects whose ages range between 17 and 35 years has been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Katsina State.

According to the comptroller, the command had also intercepted one person who claimed to be a Togolese national.

The comptroller reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and strengthening collaboration with all the relevant stakeholders to curb human trafficking, migrants’ smuggling, and other trans-border crimes.

He commended the officers of the command for their professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to duty.

Zakirai also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Mr Tunji Ojo, for their relentless support and unwavering commitment to national security.(NAN)