Koko Maxwella 
KANO, Nigeria – The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescue seven young women from a suspected human trafficking ring during a raid on a hotel in Kano State.
The agency says the women, aged between 21 and 24, are intercepted in Sabon Gari following intelligence-led surveillance. Two suspects are arrested, while a third accomplice remains at large.
NAPTIP Kano spokesperson Mohammed Habib in a statement on Thursday said investigators believe the women are being prepared for onward travel to Iraq, where they face the risk of forced labour.
“Kano is used as a transit point. The victims are recruited from southern Nigeria and deceived with false promises of jobs abroad,” Habib explains. NAPTIP Foils Iraq Trafficking Plot, Rescues Seven Women
Preliminary statements from the rescued women identify a female recruiter as the operation’s coordinator, allegedly working with a male partner now being tracked by authorities. Investigators say the victims are expected to repay travel expenses with interest upon arrival in Baghdad.
The women are transferred to NAPTIP’s protective shelter, where they receive medical attention, counselling and rehabilitation services.
“Our priority is their safety and recovery. Prosecution will follow once investigations are concluded,” Habib adds.
About the Author
Chukwu Obinna 
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 