NAPTIP challenges operators on fight against human trafficking

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has challenged tour operators, travel agents and airline operators to do more in curbing human trafficking.

Referring to Section 35 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administrative (TIPPEA) Act 2015, NAPTIP Director-General (DG), Julie Okah-Donli, said, yesterday, that it was the responsibility of tour agents and players to sensitise clients and staff against aiding human trafficking activities.

Describing them as representing gateways in and out of the country, Okah-Donli said they play a unique role in protecting would-be victims of human trafficking and identifying traffickers who travel with them. She noted that it was their responsibility to ensure travellers whom they issued tickets to or arranged tours for were not exploited at their destinations.

The NAPTIP boss said penalty for aiding and abetting human traffickers intentionally or unintentionally upon conviction was a jail term and a fine of N10m.

“I encourage them to partner with government agencies, especially frontline responders as NAPTIP, as well as non-profit organisations to stop human trafficking and help survivors rebuild their lives,” she added.