OPERATIVES of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Katsina State have uncovered an inter-state human trafficking ring and rescued three women forced into prostitution.
According to a statement issued by NAPTIP’s Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, the operation, carried out on July 9, took place at a well-known hotel in Katsina (name withheld).
The victims—aged between 21 and 26 and hailing from Benue and Rivers States—were rescued from a poorly furnished room within the hotel, while three suspected traffickers, including the hotel manager and two staff members, were arrested.
The suspects are believed to be part of a syndicate specializing in the recruitment and trafficking of young women from across Nigeria to the northern region for sexual exploitation.
The operation followed a directive by NAPTIP’s Director General, Binta Adamu Bello, OON, mandating heightened surveillance around hotels, motor parks, and public joints to disrupt trafficking networks.
One of the victims shared her harrowing ordeal, revealing that she was lured with false promises of decent employment but was instead coerced into prostitution.
She added that they were forced to sleep with up to 20 men daily, even when sick or menstruating, and were fed energy drinks to stay active. Their earnings were seized, and guards were paid to prevent escape.
Reacting to the operation, DG Binta Bello commemeded the Katsina team for their swift action, condemned the hotel’s involvement, and confirmed that legal action would be taken against the establishment.
She reiterated NAPTIP’s commitment to prosecuting individuals and institutions complicit in human trafficking.
“The law will take its full course,” she affirmed.