The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has uncovered an alleged human trafficking operation following a coordinated raid on a popular hotel in the 33 Area of Onitsha, Anambra State, leading to the arrest of six suspects and the rescue of 17 victims.
The operation, carried out with the support of military personnel, resulted in the arrest of four suspected traffickers at the hotel, while two other suspects believed to be involved in the buying and selling of babies within the South-East were apprehended in related operations.
NAPTIP disclosed that four of the rescued victims were diagnosed with HIV and are currently receiving counselling and medical support from the agency, with assistance from volunteers of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA).
According to the agency, the raid was triggered by credible intelligence provided by a non-state actor in Anambra State, which raised concerns about the presence of underage girls allegedly being exploited at the facility. The intelligence also pointed to worrying health conditions among the victims, prompting voluntary medical screening after counselling.
Investigations revealed that residents of the area had previously raised alarm over suspicious activities at the hotel, which reportedly has about 45 rooms and was known for frequent visits by men suspected of engaging in illicit activities with underage girls.
During the raid, some victims were found in compromising situations with clients, while others were reportedly dressed provocatively and waiting for customers. The victims told investigators that they were recruited from Benue, Imo, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom states and trafficked to Onitsha under false pretences before being forced into prostitution.
They further alleged that they were compelled to remit between ₦20,000 and ₦25,000 daily to their handler, popularly referred to as their “Madam,” after engaging multiple clients each day.
One of the rescued victims recounted being lured to Onitsha with a promise of legitimate employment, only to discover upon arrival that she had been forced into sex work. Another alleged that after undergoing HIV testing, their handler seized the medications provided and physically assaulted them for attempting to access medical treatment.
Reacting to the development, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello, expressed deep concern over the victims’ ordeal and deteriorating health conditions. She commended the military and the Gender and Human Rights State Response Team domiciled at ANSACA for their swift intervention and collaboration.
Bello described the denial of medical care to the victims as a criminal act, confirming that NAPTIP has launched a manhunt for the fleeing handler. She also disclosed that the owner of the hotel has been invited for questioning as investigations continue.
The NAPTIP boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to intensifying its crackdown on human trafficking, warning that 2026 would be a difficult year for anyone involved in the crime.
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