The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Akwa Ibom State command successfully conducted a raid on a hotel in Ini Local Government Area of the state, rescuing two underage girls from a suspected prostitution ring.
According to DSC Ekerete Friday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, the operation took place on Saturday, July 15, 2023, following vital intelligence provided by another teenager who managed to escape after being coerced into engaging in inappropriate activities with men at the hotel against her will.
The rescued girl, who was initially taken from her parents to work as a sales attendant in the Bar/Restaurant section of the hotel, was allegedly forced by Madam Imaobong, the wife of the hotel operator, to sleep with a man against her wishes. Courageously, she managed to escape and promptly contacted NSCDC officials in the state for assistance.
During the operation, the NSCDC rescued the victims who admitted to engaging in such activities from time to time and handing over their earnings to Madam Imaobong, who is currently evading capture.
In light of these events, the State Commandant of NSCDC, Eluyemi Eluwade, issued a warning to parents and guardians to remain vigilant against such criminals who employ deceitful tactics to lure young girls into unwholesome practices.
He emphasized the importance of education and encouraged parents to take advantage of the Akwa Ibom State government’s free and compulsory education policy up to the secondary school level.
The NSCDC will hand over the victims and other suspects apprehended at the hotel to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons for further investigation and the rehabilitation of the victims.
This incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse.
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