NSCDC discovers another human trafficking hideout in Badagry, rescues 24 victims

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Badagry has achieved a significant victory in the battle against human trafficking by uncovering and shutting down a suspected trafficking hideout in Ilado, located in the Olorunda Local Council Development Area.

According to Badagry Today, In this operation, 24 victims believed to be under the control of a trafficking syndicate were rescued.

Executed based on reliable intelligence, this operation highlights the increasing activities of international trafficking networks within Badagry and illustrates the resolve of security agencies to eliminate such criminal operations and enhance public safety.

The operation caught the attention of Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, the Executive Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, who praised the officers at the NSCDC divisional headquarters in Badagry for their prompt and professional response.

Badagry Today further report that this breakthrough followed closely on the heels of a Peace and Security Stakeholders Meeting convened by the Olorunda LCDA, which brought together security personnel, traditional leaders, community representatives, and citizens to discuss and strategize on local security issues.

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During his visit, Chief Superintendent of Corps Gbenga Ekunola, the NSCDC Divisional Officer in Badagry, reported to the Chairman that the operation was initiated following actionable intelligence that led them to a residential property in Ilado associated with suspected traffickers.

Also, Badagry Today reported that the location has been sealed off, and investigations are ongoing. Ekunola mentioned that the 24 rescued individuals, including males, females, and one pregnant woman, were unable to communicate in English or any Nigerian language, indicating they may have been trafficked into the country by an organized international network.

Arrangements are underway to hand over the victims to the appropriate authorities for assessment, care, and eventual repatriation to their home countries.

This latest operation follows a similar successful effort by the NSCDC in Okuju-Ilado, which also uncovered a trafficking syndicate and rescued victims, raising alarms about the exploitation of remote communities for such criminal activities.

Hon. Ajose commended the NSCDC for its alertness and dedication to safeguarding lives and security in Badagry. He called for increased surveillance and intelligence sharing to combat the persistent issue of trafficking in the area.

Reiterating his administration’s support for law enforcement, he urged community members to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities, emphasizing that overcoming crime requires collaboration between the public and security forces.

In response, CSC Ekunola expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s ongoing support for security initiatives. He reassured residents that the NSCDC would continue working with other security agencies to identify, apprehend, and prosecute criminals while intensifying efforts to eliminate all forms of criminality from Badagry.

This recent operation has been widely recognized as a vital advancement in the continuous fight against human trafficking and in bolstering security across the Olorunda LCDA and the broader Badagry Division.