The Akwa Ibom State Government has handed over 44 Ghanaian nationals rescued from human trafficking camps to officials of their home country, in a move that underscores growing efforts to combat organised crime and protect vulnerable persons.
A statement issued by the Government Press Unit on Friday said the victims, comprising 27 males and 17 females, were rescued from camps located in Umo Ekpo, Ifuho community in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, and Ekpri Nsukara community in Uyo Local Government Area.
Speaking during the handover to an official of the Ghana High Commission, Mr Leslie Lawson, the State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring a secure environment.
Ibanga noted that the protection of lives and property remains central to the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, with sustained investment in security infrastructure and logistics to enhance operations across the state.
She explained that the rescue operation reflects a deliberate strategy to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and enforce zero tolerance for human trafficking, kidnapping, and other forms of organised crime.
“This successful operation is not an isolated achievement. It reflects the deliberate and strategic commitment of the state government towards safeguarding lives and maintaining a secure environment for all residents,” she said.
According to the commissioner, the victims were held in deplorable conditions after being deceived, coerced, and trafficked into the state under false promises of better opportunities in Europe.
She added that the government provided immediate care and support following their rescue and facilitated processes for their safe return to Ghana, where they will be reunited with their families.
Security agencies, including the Department of State Services, were commended for dismantling the trafficking network and securing the victims’ release.
One of the victims, Gideon Yeboah, recounted how he was defrauded of 30,000 cedis and held captive since February 25 at the Ifuho camp in Ikot Ekpene.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Brigadier General Koko Essien (retd.), urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to unrealistic promises, even from trusted sources.
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He also praised security agencies for aligning with the state’s broader security objectives in tackling criminal activities.
In his remarks, Lawson expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government for its swift intervention and assured that the victims would be safely reunited with their families.
He further encouraged the returnees to support awareness campaigns by Ghanaian authorities aimed at curbing human trafficking and irregular migration.
The State Director of Security, Mr Nudim Iroakazi, advised the victims to remain cautious and learn from their experience, reiterating the government’s resolve to sustain collaboration in the fight against trafficking syndicates.
