NAPTIP RESCUES 58 OF 300 MISSING CHILDREN IN BENUE

NAPTIP RESCUES 58 OF 300 MISSING CHILDREN IN BENUE

Benue State, Nigeria — The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has confirmed the rescue of 58 out of about 300 children reported missing in Benue State, as the agency intensifies its investigation and operations against human trafficking networks in the region.

Details of the Rescue

The NAPTIP Zonal Commander in Makurdi, Mrs. Gloria Bai, announced the development at a press briefing, saying the rescues occurred over four separate operations after the matter was first investigated in May 2025.

The recovered children are between the ages of two and eight years old and were found in multiple locations, including Yelewata, Ukpam, and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area.

How the Children Were Retrieved

According to NAPTIP:

1. An initial recovery saw 20 children retrieved from Benue and areas to Nasarawa and Abuja, followed by reunification with their families.
2. A second recovery occurred at three orphanage homes in Abuja, where six children were rescued and reunited with loved ones.
3. During a third operation, three children were freed and some suspects were arrested.
4. The most recent rescue, on January 12, brought 29 more children to safety.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigation

NAPTIP confirmed the arrest of the suspected gang leader, known as Archbong, and four others, with investigations ongoing to locate and rescue the remaining missing children.

The agency urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity promptly, and assist in efforts to prevent further trafficking.

Voices from the Families

Among those reunited with their children was Mrs. Martina Tselem, a widow and internally displaced person (IDP), whose triplets were among those rescued. She explained that she and others were deceived in 2024 by individuals posing as benefactors promising to educate the children, only to disappear with them.

Mrs. Tselem described how she first learned of the deception during her husband’s burial and lamented that there was no formal agreement when their children were handed over. She commended NAPTIP and partners for returning the children safely.

Why This Matters

Benue State has been highlighted as a hotspot for human trafficking activities, with networks exploiting vulnerable families by promising education or better opportunities for children — tactics that have led to widespread concerns among human rights and anti-trafficking groups.