By Sadiq Takwar, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Police Command has rescued 39 victims of human trafficking—32 males and 7 females—who were confined in a bungalow located within the Orange Market area of Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area.
The operation followed what authorities described as “credible intelligence” indicating that the victims, mainly Malian nationals, were being held against their will by a suspected trafficker identified as Abdullahi Berter. The suspect had allegedly deceived the victims with false promises of employment opportunities in France before bringing them into Nigeria.
Security operatives have launched a manhunt for Berter and other accomplices believed to be part of the trafficking network. The rescued individuals are expected to be transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and appropriate action.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Mohammed Jauro, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to dismantle human trafficking rings and safeguard vulnerable individuals across the state.
In a separate security operation, officers apprehended a suspected kidnapper, Abubakar Adamu, in Adudu, Awe Local Government Area. A firearm, two magazines, and 11 rounds of live ammunition were reportedly recovered from his hideout. The suspect is currently undergoing interrogation and will be prosecuted upon completion of investigations.
The Police Command reiterated that Nasarawa State will not tolerate human trafficking, kidnapping, or any form of criminal activity, urging residents to continue providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
