Edo Govt Rescues Trafficking Victims from Burkina Faso -

The Edo State Government has successfully rescued and repatriated three trafficked indigenes from Burkina Faso, in a distressing case that highlights the brutal realities of human trafficking.

The victims identified as Precious, Peace, and Evans were received at Benin Airport on Tuesday following a coordinated rescue operation led by the Edo State Migration Agency.

Speaking to journalists, the agency’s Director-General, Lucky Agazuma, described the situation as both “heartbreaking and relieving,” noting that while the victims have been safely returned, the extent of their suffering remains deeply troubling.

According to Agazuma, the rescue mission was initiated after Nigeria’s ambassador to Burkina Faso alerted the Edo State Government about the victims’ condition.

Acting swiftly, Governor Monday Okpebholo ordered immediate intervention.

Investigations revealed that Evans had been lured to Burkina Faso under false pretenses but was arrested and detained upon arrival, remaining in custody until government intervention secured his release.

The ordeal of the two female victims was even more harrowing. They were reportedly trafficked with promises of legitimate employment but were forced into prostitution upon arrival. When they refused, they were subjected to severe physical abuse and inhumane treatment.

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One of the women suffered extreme violence that led to the loss of her sight. She has since been referred for urgent medical care as directed by the state government.

Authorities disclosed that efforts are ongoing to locate the family of the visually impaired victim, who is believed to have lived in the Uselu area of Edo State before her ordeal. The

government has appealed to the public for any useful information that could assist in reconnecting her with her relatives.

Agazuma further confirmed that intelligence gathered prior to the rescue led to the arrest of one suspected member of the trafficking network, with investigations still underway.

The Edo State Government has assured that the victims will undergo rehabilitation and reintegration programs to support their recovery and return to normal life.

This incident once again underscores the dangers of irregular migration and the urgent need for increased awareness and stronger action against human trafficking networks.