Troops arrest two suspected IPOB/ESN members in anambra

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops under Operation UDO KA have arrested two suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network, during separate sting operations in Anambra State.

Security sources said the first arrest was carried out at about 1:00 p.m. on March 31 at Ihiala checkpoint by troops of Sector 5, working with a tracking team and aerial surveillance support.

According to the sources, the suspect, a native of Oraifite in Ekwusigo Local Government Area, was intercepted during the operation following intelligence reports.

Preliminary investigations allegedly revealed that the suspect served as a nurse responsible for providing medical attention to operatives in a suspected camp located in Umunze, Orumba South Local Government Area.

The sources said items recovered from the suspect include two mobile phones, a handbag containing drugs, jewellery and a phone charger.

In a related development, troops at Umunze checkpoint, also acting on intelligence, arrested another suspect identified as a native of Ogbunka in Orumba South LGA.

The sources said the second suspect allegedly confessed to being a member of the proscribed group during preliminary interrogation.

They added that both suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation, while recovered items remain exhibits for further action.

Troops arrest two suspected IPOB/ESN members in anambra

Troops sustain offensive operations in Anambra

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops have continued offensive operations in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State as part of ongoing efforts to dislodge suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network.

Security sources said the operation, conducted by troops of 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) and 14 Field Engineer Regiment, has been ongoing for three days in Ubaha community, Isseke area of Ihiala LGA.

According to the sources, the troops encountered improvised explosive device (IED) attacks during the operation but recorded no casualties.

The sources added that troops have continued to maintain blocking positions at identified crossing points within the general area believed to be used by the suspected armed group.

They said the operation is still ongoing as security forces intensify efforts to clear the area of criminal elements and restore normalcy.

Troops sustain offensive operations in Anambra

NAPTIP, ICMPD Sensitise Students on Trafficking, Safe Migration in Abuja

By: Michael Mike

About 100 secondary school students in Abuja have been sensitised on the dangers of human trafficking, violence and irregular migration during the Safe Futures Awareness Day organised to commemorate the 2026 celebration of International Women’s Day.

The one-day school outreach programme was organised by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development in partnership with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons as part of efforts to educate young Nigerians on personal safety and safe migration practices.

The event, which brought together students, government officials and development partners, was designed to be interactive, accessible and informative, creating a safe space where young people could learn about trafficking risks, ask questions and gain knowledge to protect themselves and their peers.

Organisers said the outreach programme aimed to raise awareness among students about the dangers of human trafficking and how to recognise early warning signs. It also provided clear information on safe and legal migration pathways as opposed to irregular and risky routes that often expose individuals to exploitation.

Participants were further equipped with practical personal safety tips and encouraged to openly discuss issues related to trafficking, migration and online safety. The initiative also sought to build stronger awareness among students about the mandates of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and the Nigeria Immigration Service in protecting young Nigerians from exploitation and ensuring safe cross-border movement.

Speaking at the programme, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello, warned students to be cautious of offers promising quick wealth, overseas jobs or travel opportunities without proper documentation or verification.

According to her, traffickers often exploit the hopes and aspirations of young people by presenting deceptive opportunities that eventually lead to exploitation and loss of freedom.

“Traffickers prey on hope, desperation and lack of information. They promise fast money, travel or glamour, but what they deliver is pain, loss of freedom and danger,” she said.

Bello stressed that irregular migration may appear attractive but often exposes individuals to abuse, trafficking and broken promises.

She advised students to verify any opportunity that involves travelling abroad and to ensure such offers come with the necessary skills, valid contracts, verified employers and legal migration channels.

“If someone offers you a great job abroad, that may sound fantastic, but it must be safe. Offers that come without relevant skills, clear contracts, verified employers or legal migration channels can be traps rather than opportunities,” she cautioned.

The NAPTIP boss also reminded the students that traffickers often manipulate trust and that awareness and fact-checking remain critical in protecting themselves.

“Some of you may think it cannot happen to you because you are careful, but traffickers are clever and know how to manipulate trust. Being informed and checking facts protects you,” she added.

Bello encouraged the students to remain focused on education and skills development, assuring them that their future should never be compromised by unsafe opportunities.

“You are not commodities to be traded. Your safety, your dreams and your future are priceless. Keep learning, keep building your skills and pursue opportunities through safe and legal channels,” she said.

She also assured participants that NAPTIP, together with partners including the International Centre for Migration Policy Development and the Government of the Netherlands, would continue to strengthen efforts to protect Nigerians from trafficking and hold perpetrators accountable.

The Safe Futures Awareness Day is supported by the Ministry of Asylum and Migration of the Kingdom of the Netherlands under the Building and Environment Free of Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons in Nigeria (TIPVAP NG) project.

Through discussions, presentations and interactive sessions, students were encouraged to recognise trafficking risks, understand safe migration processes and learn practical ways to protect themselves both online and offline.

Organisers expressed optimism that the knowledge shared during the programme would empower young Nigerians to make informed decisions and pursue their aspirations without falling victim to trafficking networks.

NAPTIP, ICMPD Sensitise Students on Trafficking, Safe Migration in Abuja