In a major breakthrough for transnational crime control, Nigerian security agencies have arrested two international fugitives linked to organized crime and human trafficking networks across Europe. One of the suspects, a Nigerian national, was wanted in Belgium for operating a dangerous €50,000 voodoo debt trafficking ring that exploited dozens of Nigerian women.

The arrests were carried out through a coordinated operation between the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and Interpol, following weeks of intelligence sharing and cross-border surveillance. The development was confirmed by police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who commended the collaboration between Nigeria’s law enforcement and international partners.

The “Voodoo Debt” Trafficking Scheme

The most notorious of the two arrested fugitives is accused of trafficking Nigerian women to Europe, primarily through Belgium and Italy. Upon arrival, the women were coerced into sex work under the weight of traditional juju rituals, psychological manipulation, and debt bondage schemes amounting to as much as €50,000 per victim.

These voodoo oaths, often administered in shrines back in Nigeria, were used to control and silence the victims, many of whom feared death or spiritual retaliation if they disobeyed orders or spoke to authorities.

The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the Belgian Federal Police had issued an international red notice for the suspect. His arrest in Nigeria now opens the door for potential extradition proceedings or prosecution under Nigeria’s Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015.

“These arrests mark a significant milestone in our efforts to dismantle criminal networks that traffic our people and tarnish Nigeria’s global reputation,” said Dame Julie Okah-Donli, former Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), in an interview with Channels TV.

The Second Fugitive and Wider Implications

The second fugitive, whose identity has not been disclosed publicly for legal reasons, is believed to be part of a wider organized crime syndicate involved in document forgery, cybercrime, and recruitment of minors for illegal migration routes through the Sahel and into Europe.

The Nigerian authorities emphasized that these arrests are part of a broader crackdown on human trafficking and cross-border crime, which has seen increased collaboration with Interpol, the EU, and neighboring West African states.

Nigeria’s Role in the Global Human Trafficking Crisis

Nigeria remains a key source and transit country for human trafficking, especially for women and girls. The 2023 U.S. Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report listed Nigeria as a Tier 2 Watch List country, noting that while progress has been made, challenges remain in enforcement and victim protection.

According to NAPTIP, over 1,200 trafficking victims were rescued in Nigeria in 2023 alone, with Edo, Delta, and Lagos States identified as major recruitment hubs.

“Arrests like these not only bring perpetrators to justice but serve as a warning to others who think they can operate with impunity,” said Fatima Waziri-Azi, current Director-General of NAPTIP.

Advice for Citizens and the Diaspora

Authorities have advised Nigerians, especially those seeking to travel abroad, to beware of fake travel agents and job offers that sound too good to be true. The public is also encouraged to report suspicious activities to NAPTIP via its short-code *627 or through official channels.

Foreign governments are likewise urged to continue supporting intelligence sharing and victim rehabilitation programs to combat the multi-billion-dollar trafficking industry.

Global Significance

This arrest highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling transnational crime and protecting vulnerable populations. With extradition likely and judicial proceedings underway, Nigeria has taken another step in restoring its global image and demonstrating zero tolerance for human trafficking.

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Last Updated on May 8, 2025 by kingstar