A woman identified as Rita has reportedly been arrested in Aliade, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, after seven underage girls were allegedly rescued in connection with a suspected human trafficking operation.
According to reports, four of the girls were intercepted at the Benue Links Nigeria Limited park in Aliade, while three others were reportedly found at the suspect’s residence.
The suspect was allegedly keeping the girls at her residence and sending them out in batches to Ghana.
She is reportedly being held at the Aliade Police Division pending further investigation and possible transfer of the case to the appropriate authorities.
The identities of the minors have not been disclosed, while details surrounding how they came into the suspect’s custody and the intended destination of the girls are expected to form part of the investigation.
The reported incident has renewed concerns over child trafficking and the need for stronger protection of minors from exploitation.
Authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the movement of the girls and determine whether criminal offences were committed.
