Operatives of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons have busted a suspected human trafficking syndicate allegedly operating under the disguise of an online marketing company in Nasarawa State.
The operation led to the rescue of 15 persons, including several foreign nationals, during a coordinated raid carried out in Keffi and Karu Local Government Areas of the State.
According to NAPTIP, the raid was conducted on May 7, 2026, between 4:45 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. by officers from the Agency’s Investigation Department and Intelligence and International Cooperation Unit following intelligence reports about suspicious activities linked to online recruitment operations in the area.
Preliminary findings showed that the victims included four females and 11 males. Among the male victims, three were Nigerians, while the remaining individuals were identified as foreign nationals.
Investigators said the suspects allegedly used the platform of an online marketing company to recruit and harbour unsuspecting victims in what authorities suspect to be a network connected to human trafficking, cyber exploitation and organised criminal activities.
NAPTIP warned that criminal groups are increasingly disguising illegal operations as legitimate job opportunities to lure vulnerable people into exploitation.
“Behind the promise of ‘online jobs’ was a suspected human trafficking network operating in Nasarawa State,” the Agency said.
The Agency described the recruitment tactics as both a security threat and a humanitarian concern, noting that victims are often exposed to various forms of abuse and exploitation.
NAPTIP added that investigations were still ongoing to uncover the full scale of the operation and identify other individuals linked to the suspected trafficking network.
The Agency also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious recruitment activities and unusual movements within their communities to security authorities.
Human trafficking and cyber-related exploitation have continued to raise concerns across Nigeria, with authorities repeatedly warning young people and foreign nationals against fake job offers and fraudulent online business schemes used by criminal syndicates.
