Akwa Ibom State rescues 44 Ghanaian nationals from trafficking camps and hands them over to Ghana authorities, pledging tougher anti-crime efforts

The Akwa Ibom State Government has rescued 44 Ghanaian nationals from suspected human trafficking camps across parts of the state and formally handed them over to officials of the Ghana High Commission for repatriation.

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The victims, comprising 27 males and 17 females, were discovered in camps located at Umo Ekpo and Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, as well as Ekpri Nsukara in Uyo Local Government Area.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and ensuring a secure environment for residents and foreigners alike.

She said the administration’s security efforts, anchored on Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, include sustained investment in security infrastructure and logistics to strengthen law enforcement operations.

According to her, the rescued victims were deceived, defrauded, and trafficked into the state under false promises of opportunities abroad, where they were subsequently held in harsh and unhealthy conditions.

Ibanga added that following their rescue, the state government provided immediate care and support before initiating processes for their safe return to Ghana.

She also stressed that the operation reflects the government’s zero-tolerance stance on human trafficking, kidnapping, and organised crime.

Officials of the Department of State Services and other security agencies were commended for their role in dismantling the trafficking network and securing the release of the victims.

One of the victims, Gideon Yeboah, recounted how he was defrauded of 30,000 cedis and held captive since February 25 in the Ikot Ekpene camp.

Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Brig. Gen. Koko Essien (retd.), praised the operation and urged residents to be wary of suspicious job offers and migration promises.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling criminal networks operating within the state.

An official of the Ghana High Commission, Mr Leslie Lawson, expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government and assured that the victims would be reunited with their families.

He also encouraged the victims to participate in awareness campaigns against human trafficking and irregular migration.

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Security officials further advised the rescued individuals to remain vigilant and share their experiences to help prevent others from falling victim to similar trafficking schemes.