The Akwa Ibom State government has announced the handover of 44 Ghanaian nationals, rescued from two human trafficking camps within the state, to officials of their home country.
According to a statement issued by the state government’s press unit on Friday, the victims comprised 27 males and 17 females. They were rescued from camps located in Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene, and Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Emem Ibanga, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and ensuring a secure environment. She emphasised that safeguarding lives and property remains a priority, supported by continuous investment in security infrastructure and operational logistics.
Ibanga noted that the state government would further strengthen collaboration with security agencies while maintaining zero tolerance for human trafficking, kidnapping, and other organised crimes.
“This successful operation is not an isolated achievement. It reflects the deliberate and strategic commitment of Governor Umo Eno towards safeguarding lives and maintaining a secure environment for all residents,” she said.
She explained that the victims were kept in deplorable conditions after being deceived, coerced, and lured into the state with promises of better opportunities in Europe.
The commissioner added that the government provided care and support for the victims and initiated arrangements for their safe return to Ghana, where they will be reunited with their families.
Ibanga commended the Department of State Services and other security agencies for dismantling the trafficking network and securing the victims’ freedom.
Meanwhile, Leslie Lawson expressed appreciation to the state government for its intervention and assured that the victims would be reunited with their families.
He also encouraged the victims to support awareness campaigns led by Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports against human trafficking and irregular migration.
One of the victims, Gideon Yeboah, who was held at the Ifuho community camp in Ikot Ekpene since February 25, revealed that he was defrauded of 30,000 cedis.
In a related development, police authorities in Ondo State previously arrested suspects linked to a transnational human trafficking syndicate and rescued 14 victims during separate operations.