The Benin Zonal Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, achieved a significant breakthrough with the successful rescue of three victims trafficked from Ivory Coast.
The NAPTIP Commander for the zone, Barrister Nduka Nwanwenene, announced this positive development during a baseline revalidation workshop for STEAP implementation in Edo schools of human trafficking held in Benin.
Providing an update on the rescued victims, Nwanwenene stated that they are currently receiving care at the agency’s shelter in Benin City.
Highlighting the recent rescue operation, he shared, “Three girls who were saved from Ivory Coast just arrived at our shelter three days ago. Our shelter has accommodated numerous survivors, with their stay typically lasting for about six weeks depending on individual circumstances.”
Providing a specific example, he shared the story of a lady who had been rescued after spending a decade in Mali. “She stayed at our shelter and was successfully reunited with her family. Thanks to our partners at the International Organization for Migration, IOM, a business opportunity was facilitated for her,” he added.
Highlighting the collaborative efforts to combat human trafficking, particularly with the Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), he clarified that the NIS promptly alerts NAPTIP whenever victims are intercepted at the Nigerian border.
Describing the agency’s strategy for empowering survivors, Nwanwenene noted their emphasis on involving survivors in productive activities to mitigate the risk of re-trafficking.
Providing insight into ongoing empowerment initiatives, he mentioned, “Last month, we empowered three survivors, and we have 15 survivors currently undergoing training at the shelter who will also receive empowerment upon completion of their program in the next six months.”