The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), says two persons have been convicted and sentenced to prison for human trafficking-related offences in Gombe State, while seven suspects are currently facing trial over alleged baby trafficking and related offences.
The Gombe State Commander of NAPTIP, Aminu Shira, disclosed this in an interview with journalists in Gombe, saying the agency had intensified investigations and prosecution of suspected traffickers across the state.
Shira revealed that some healthcare workers and officials within the social welfare system were collaborating with traffickers to facilitate the illegal sale and movement of babies.
He said the development has heightened the agency’s efforts to strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance around vulnerable communities and institutions.
According to him, NAPTIP is working with relevant security and law enforcement agencies to identify trafficking networks, arrest suspects and ensure that those found culpable faced the full weight of the law.
“We have seven persons currently facing prosecution over cases bordering on baby trafficking and human trafficking, while two others have been convicted and sentenced to prison,” he said.
The commander assured residents that the agency would continue to deepen collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders to prevent trafficking, protect victims and prosecute offenders.
He also urged members of the public to support the fight against trafficking by providing timely information to authorities whenever they noticed suspicious activities involving children or vulnerable persons.
Shira advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and exercise caution, especially when dealing with individuals or organisations offering to facilitate the adoption, movement or care of children.
