The Akwa Ibom State Government has returned 44 Ghanaian nationals rescued from human trafficking camps, as part of efforts to crack down on organised crime networks in the state.
The victims, 27 men and 17 women, were rescued from Umo Ekpo in Ifuho community, Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, and Ekpri Nsukara in Uyo, during coordinated security operations.
Speaking during the handover to a representative of the Ghana High Commission, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Emem Ibanga, said the move reflects the state’s firm stance against human trafficking and related offences.
She noted that the operation highlights the commitment of Governor Umo Eno to protecting lives and ensuring a safe environment for residents.
Ibanga explained that the victims had been lured to Nigeria with false promises of travel opportunities to Europe, but were instead exploited, defrauded, and kept in poor conditions.
After their rescue, the state provided immediate support and began arrangements for their safe return to Ghana.
She added that the operation is part of a broader security strategy focused on strengthening logistics and working closely with security agencies to tackle trafficking, kidnapping, and other organised crimes.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, retired Brig. Gen. Koko Essien, also warned residents to be cautious of fraudulent migration offers, urging them to avoid unrealistic promises, even from trusted sources.
The state government praised the Department of State Services and other security agencies for dismantling the trafficking network and rescuing the victims.
In response, a representative of the Ghana High Commission, Leslie Lawson, thanked the state government for the rescue effort and assured that the victims would be reunited with their families.
He also encouraged them to help raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and irregular migration, as both sides reaffirmed their commitment to tackling cross-border crime.
