The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has raised an alarm over new tactics used by human traffickers, warning that syndicates are now targeting fitness centres, social gatherings, and fake employment postings to trap victims.
According to Punch, NAPTIP spokesperson Adekoye Vincent revealed this during a joint briefing held by security and intelligence agencies in Abuja. He explained that criminal networks are increasingly focusing on women in recreational places, pretending to be helpful service providers to win their confidence.
Vincent stated that these operatives often offer assistance with domestic chores, shopping, or sourcing items, collecting phone numbers and presenting themselves as dependable companions. He noted that some go as far as showing up during moments of distress, such as car breakdowns, purely to establish familiarity before drawing targets into trafficking webs.
The agency also voiced strong concern regarding misleading employment advertisements published on the internet. Vincent disclosed that several citizens have travelled across state lines for job opportunities only to end up in dangerous traps. He cited a disturbing case involving a lawyer who journeyed from Benue State for an interview at an Abuja law chamber and fell into the hands of traffickers.
Vincent warned that the ordeal leaves victims with serious psychological and emotional trauma, and in some situations leads to unwanted pregnancies. He advised Nigerians to avoid jumping into fast online connections and insisted that individuals must verify the identities and true intentions behind unsolicited job vacancies or offers of financial support.
