The Nigerian Navy has handed over two victims of human trafficking rescued during a recent anti-trafficking operation to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for rehabilitation, protection and further investigation.

The Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, the victims were formally transferred by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry to NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Command in Ikeja on July 19, following their rescue during a targeted anti-human trafficking operation conducted on July 17.

Folorunsho explained that the handover was carried out in accordance with the Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures (HSOP) for the handling of victims of human trafficking to ensure proper care and protection of the rescued individuals.

He said the victims were initially taken to the Western Naval Command’s Maritime Crime Investigation Desk, where they underwent documentation, biometric registration and other administrative processes before being transferred to NAPTIP.

“They underwent comprehensive documentation, biometric capture, and other necessary administrative procedures before being formally transferred to NAPTIP for rehabilitation, protection, and further investigation,” he said.

The Navy spokesman described the successful rescue and transfer as a reflection of the Service’s commitment to combating transnational organised crime and protecting vulnerable persons within Nigeria’s maritime and territorial corridors.

He added that the operation further demonstrated the Nigerian Navy’s close collaboration with relevant government agencies in dismantling human trafficking networks and strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.

Folorunsho reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to sustain intelligence-driven operations and enhance inter-agency cooperation aimed at preventing human trafficking, disrupting criminal syndicates and safeguarding the country’s maritime environment.

He stressed that the Service would continue to support national security objectives by protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime corridors against all forms of criminal activities while ensuring that victims of trafficking receive appropriate care and rehabilitation through relevant government institutions.