Six suspects arrested, 17 girls rescued as a hotel allegedly doubled as a trafficking hub.
Operatives of NAPTIP have busted a suspected human trafficking and baby-selling syndicate operating from a hotel in Onitsha, Anambra State, arresting six suspects and rescuing 17 young girls. The sting, backed by the military, followed intelligence reports of underage girls being exploited inside the facility.
Investigators say the victims were trafficked from Benue, Imo, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom with fake job promises, only to be forced into prostitution and made to remit up to ₦25,000 daily to their handlers. Medical checks revealed four victims tested HIV-positive and are now receiving care and counselling.
NAPTIP DG Binta Bello described the case as “heartbreaking,” especially allegations that sick victims were denied treatment. She confirmed a manhunt for fleeing suspects, invited the hotel owner for questioning, and warned traffickers that 2026 will be unforgiving.
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