NAPTIP raids Kano hotel, rescues Iraq-bound human trafficking victims and arrests two suspects

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued seven women who were allegedly being prepared for trafficking to Iraq following a raid on a hotel in the Sabon Gari area of Kano State.

The rescue operation was carried out by operatives of the agency’s Kano Zonal Command based on credible intelligence. 

According to NAPTIP, the victims, aged between 21 and 24, were rescued during the raid conducted on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

NAPTIP Public Relations Officer in Kano, Mohammed Habib, confirmed that two suspects linked to the trafficking scheme were arrested during the operation, while another suspect remains at large.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the women were recruited from the southern parts of Nigeria and transported to Kano, which was being used as a transit point before their planned movement to Baghdad, Iraq. 

Authorities believe they were to be forced into labour upon arrival.

The agency said statements from the rescued women identified a female suspect as the ringleader of the operation. She was said to have coordinated the travel arrangements with a male accomplice who is currently being sought by law enforcement.

Investigators also disclosed that the travel plan allegedly required the women to repay all expenses incurred for their trip, along with additional profit, after reaching their destination.

NAPTIP said the rescued women are currently in its custody in Kano, where they are receiving care, counselling, and rehabilitation support.

The agency added that the suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

It reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling human trafficking networks and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities related to trafficking.