The Akwa Ibom State Government has handed over 44 Ghanaian nationals rescued from human trafficking camps in the state to officials of their home country.
A statement from the Government Press Unit on Friday said the victims, comprising 27 males and 17 females, were rescued from camps at Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, and Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo Local Government Area of the state.
Handing over the victims to an official of the Ghana High Commission, Mr Leslie Lawson, the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining a secure environment.
She said the security of lives and property, as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, remains a top priority, with sustained investment in security infrastructure and logistics for effective operations.
According to her, the investment is aimed at strengthening collaboration with security agencies and ensuring 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.
Ibanga explained that the victims were held in unhealthy conditions after being defrauded, coerced, and lured into the state with promises of better opportunities in Europe.
