The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful dismantling of two major human trafficking syndicates operating across the country. In coordinated sting operations spanning Enugu, Anambra, and Ondo States, law enforcement rescued numerous victims, including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals, and apprehended 11 suspects.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, commending the officers involved for their bravery and precision.

In one operation spearheaded by the Zone-13 Police Command, authorities targeted a child trafficking and “baby factory” ring. Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56), who allegedly confessed to involvement in child abduction, illegal adoption, and operating unlicensed medical facilities used as baby factories. The syndicate operated strategically across communities in Enugu and Anambra States, preying on vulnerable women and children. Rescued victims included a seven-month-old baby, a four-year-old child, and two pregnant women, all discovered in a secluded village. The expectant mothers, from Ebonyi State, were reportedly lured and detained for forced childbirth, with the intent to sell their newborns. The victims are currently receiving medical and psychological support under protective custody, while the search continues for fleeing members of the syndicate.

In a separate incident in Ondo State, an operation led by the state police resulted in the rescue of David Angerinya, a Ghanaian national trafficked into Nigeria under false pretenses. This operation stemmed from a formal petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja, highlighting a suspected case of transnational human trafficking. Investigators uncovered a broader international trafficking network and arrested three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix. These individuals were allegedly part of a syndicate deceiving individuals from neighboring West African countries with false promises of jobs and travel visas to destinations like Canada, only to hold them in exploitative conditions in Nigeria. During the raid, police discovered 39 additional Ghanaian nationals, many without valid travel documents or with expired passports, and in dire health conditions. These victims are now receiving medical treatment.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers for their swift response and dedication to dismantling trafficking networks. He reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to combating human trafficking, child exploitation, and cross-border crimes. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

The Inspector-General emphasized the Police Force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice, stating, “These operations send a strong and clear message: there is no hiding place for human traffickers in Nigeria.” He added that the Nigeria Police Force will continue working to disrupt criminal networks and safeguard the rights and dignity of all individuals within the nation’s borders.

Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda confirmed that the repatriation of Buhari’s body from the United Kingdom is scheduled for Tuesday, with the burial taking place on the same day.

Preparations for the burial are underway in Daura. Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London overseeing the repatriation process.

Buhari, who previously served as a military leader from 1984 to 1985, held consecutive presidential terms from 2015 to 2023. He was the first opposition figure to democratically ascend to the presidency in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days and declared that Buhari will receive full state honors. Tributes have poured in, with Tinubu lauding Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman.” Former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida also acknowledged Buhari’s patriotism, despite past disagreements. While remembered for his integrity, some observers have noted Buhari’s challenges in improving Nigeria’s economy and security during his tenure.

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82, according to an announcement made by President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson. The announcement stated that Buhari passed away in London at approximately 4:30 PM (15:30 GMT) on July 13th, following a prolonged illness.

Buhari’s ascent to the presidency in 2015 marked a significant moment in Nigerian history, as he became the first opposition candidate to unseat a sitting president through the ballot box. A retired major general who previously led Nigeria in the 1980s following a military coup, Buhari later transitioned to civilian politics, projecting an image of a “converted democrat.”

Throughout his presidency, Buhari was known for his commitment to fighting corruption and his austere lifestyle. However, his administration faced challenges in curbing rising insecurity, with armed violence spreading across the country. Despite these challenges, Buhari’s legacy remains as a symbol of democratic change in Nigeria.