BENIN CITY – The Benin Zonal Command of the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued more than 500 victims of human trafficking in the zone between July 2018 and July 2019.

Mr Nduka Nwanwenne, Zonal Commander of the Agency disclosed this on Tuesday in Benin during activities marking the grand finale of the 2019 World Day against Human Trafficking.

Nwanwenne also said that no fewer than 150 suspects had been arrested by the zone within the period for suspected human trafficking.

While reiterating government’s commitment to winning the fight against human trafficking, he appealed to all Nigerians to fight the scourge.

He also advised students and youths to resist the urge to be trafficked with a promise of short cut to wealth and glamorous life.

According to him, there is no gold in the streets of Europe.

“You can make it here in Nigeria if you work hard and set your mind to your calling and talents,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the zone had embarked on a five kilometre road walk round major roads in Benin to draw awareness to the fight against human trafficking.

NAN also reports that there was also schools debate on the topic “Human Trafficking is a Cog on Socio-Economic Development.”

NAN reports that the New Era College, Benin, emerged winner of the Schools’ debate, while Inomwan Foundation School and Western Boys College emerged second and third respectively.