Nigerian Army troops have apprehended a human trafficker in Lagos, while a 22-year-old victim managed to escape after overhearing plans to transport her to Libya.
Troops from the 65th Battalion of the Nigerian Army (NA) operating under the 81st Division NA have successfully apprehended a human trafficker, Mrs. Olushola Areke, in Lagos, following the escape of her victim.
According to the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81st Division Nigerian Army, who made this revelation in a statement on Monday, April 29, 2024, Areke was arrested based on actionable intelligence regarding her involvement in human trafficking.
The statement detailed that the parents of the 22-year-old victim, Miss Fayoke Kunle, had entrusted her to Areke under the pretense of securing employment for her in Oshodi, Lagos. However, Areke instead relocated Fayoke to Kano State with intentions to traffic her to Libya.
“The suspect was accused of abducting Miss Fayoke Kunle, a 22-year-old daughter of Mrs. Ainor Kunle.
Mrs. Kunle claimed she had voluntarily entrusted her daughter to the suspect, who had promised to secure employment for the young girl in Oshodi, Lagos,” the statement read.
“However, instead of heading to Oshodi as promised, the suspect moved Miss Kunle to Kano, where the victim later discovered herself and overheard discussions about being transported to Libya.
“Miss Kunle courageously escaped from her captor and returned home on April 23, 2024.
“In response to this alarming report, troops reached out to Mrs. Areke and subsequently arrested her at the designated meeting point, where she intended to pick up her supposed other victims.
“Both the suspect and the victim have been handed over to the Ajah Police Command in Lagos for further investigation.
“The Division urges members of the public to continue supporting the NA by providing timely information to aid in maintaining law and order.
“The NA remains committed to promoting peace and stability across the Division Area of Responsibility.
