The Cross River State Police Command has apprehended Victor Eyop for allegedly trafficking young girls from Nigeria to Libya.
The arrest was confirmed on Monday by the State Commissioner of Police, Gyogon Grimah, during a press briefing in Calabar.
Grimah disclosed that the case was reported on November 9 by one Mr. Chidi Samuel, who accused Eyop and his wife, Mrs. Esther Eyop, of recruiting three girls, including 16-year-old Mabel Tom, 25-year-old Anita Lawrence, and Ms. Deborah Nyong, for trafficking.
Modus Operandi
According to Grimah, the suspects reportedly subjected the victims to medical tests for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections before taking them to their home. The following day, the girls were given a substance to mix with their bath water for “cleansing” ahead of the journey.
On November 12, Eyop and his wife transported the girls to Bogobiri Street in Calabar, where they booked tickets and sent them to Kaduna. Arrangements were made for a contact, identified only as “Hajiya,” to receive the girls upon arrival.
Victims’ Escape
While en route to Katsina from Kaduna, the victims became suspicious when the taxi they were traveling in broke down. Realizing they were being trafficked, the girls contacted Mr. Samuel for help. He sent money to them through a Point of Sale (POS) operator, enabling them to return to Kaduna and eventually find their way back to Calabar on November 15.
Legal Proceedings
The police commissioner assured the public that the suspect would face legal action. “The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation,” Grimah stated.
The Cross River State Police Command reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking and urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.