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NAPTIP Intervenes in Kano Hotel, Rescues Women Destined for Human Trafficking to Iraq
In a decisive operation, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) successfully freed seven young women from a hotel in Kano State’s Sabon Gari district. These women were reportedly being prepared for illegal trafficking to Iraq.
Details of the Rescue Mission
The Kano Zonal Command of NAPTIP executed the raid on Thursday, February 12, 2026, acting on reliable intelligence. The victims, aged between 21 and 24 years, were intercepted before they could be moved out of the country.
Suspects Apprehended and Ongoing Investigations
According to Mohammed Habib, NAPTIP’s Public Relations Officer in Kano, two individuals connected to the trafficking ring were arrested during the operation, while one suspect remains at large. Early inquiries reveal that the women were recruited from southern Nigeria and brought to Kano, which served as a transit hub before their intended transfer to Baghdad.
Exploitation Scheme and Financial Coercion
Investigators uncovered that the traffickers planned to force the women into labor upon arrival in Iraq. The victims were also expected to reimburse all travel-related expenses, plus an additional profit margin, once they reached their destination. This exploitative financial arrangement is a common tactic used by traffickers to trap victims in cycles of debt and forced labor.
Leadership of the Trafficking Network
Statements from the rescued women identified a female ringleader orchestrating the trafficking operation. She coordinated travel logistics with a male accomplice who is currently being pursued by law enforcement agencies.
Support and Rehabilitation for Rescued Victims
The rescued women are now under the care of NAPTIP in Kano, where they are receiving comprehensive support including counseling, medical care, and rehabilitation services aimed at restoring their well-being and reintegrating them into society.
Legal Proceedings and Public Appeal
NAPTIP has confirmed that the suspects will face prosecution once investigations conclude. The agency reiterated its unwavering dedication to dismantling human trafficking networks across Nigeria and urged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activities related to trafficking.
Context and Broader Implications
Human trafficking remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, with the International Labour Organization estimating that over 1.5 million people in the country are victims of forced labor and trafficking. Operations like this highlight the ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat these crimes and protect vulnerable populations.
