Anti-Trafficking Operation: Navy Rescues Two, Hands Them to NAPTIP

The Nigerian Navy has handed over two victims rescued from suspected human trafficking to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), reaffirming its commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime.

The victims were formally transferred by the Nigerian Navy's Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry to NAPTIP's Lagos Zonal Command in Ikeja on July 19, 2026, following their rescue during a targeted anti-human trafficking operation conducted on July 17.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the rescued victims were processed in line with the Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures (HSOP) for handling trafficking victims before being handed over to the agency.

Folorunsho explained that the victims were initially taken to the Western Naval Command Maritime Crime Investigation Desk, where they underwent documentation, biometric capture and other administrative procedures to facilitate proper identification and case management.

He said the victims were subsequently transferred to NAPTIP for rehabilitation, protection and further investigation.

The Navy noted that the successful rescue and smooth transfer of the victims demonstrated its determination to protect Nigeria's maritime and territorial domains from transnational organised criminal activities while ensuring the safety, dignity and welfare of vulnerable persons.

The statement added that the operation also highlighted the strong collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and relevant government agencies in dismantling human trafficking networks and strengthening the country's national security framework.

Folorunsho reiterated that the Navy would continue to sustain intelligence-driven operations and deepen inter-agency cooperation to prevent human trafficking, disrupt criminal syndicates and maintain a safe and secure maritime environment in support of Nigeria's national security objectives.