The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has secured the conviction of two men for trafficking eight children, including some of their biological offspring, for exploitation in Cross River State.
The convicts, Mabum Arisha and Mutashu Mabum, both from Mfom 1 Village in Ogoja Local Government Area, were on Monday found guilty on all 17 counts preferred against them by a Federal High Court sitting in Calabar.
The trial judge, Justice L. Ojukwu, held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, leading to their conviction.
The court heard that the duo recruited and handed over the children from their community to one Ada Eze, who is currently at large, for the purpose of exploitation.
The charges, filed on August 16, 2024, saw the defendants arraigned on October 17, 2024, where they pleaded not guilty.
However, after the conclusion of trial, the court returned a guilty verdict on all counts.
Arisha was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment with an option of a N2m fine on each of counts one to 11, with the jail terms to run concurrently from the date of judgment.
Similarly, Mabum was handed 12 years imprisonment with a N2m fine on each of counts 12 to 17, with the sentences also to run concurrently.
In addition, the court directed that one of the rescued victims, Favour Arisha, who was recovered by NAPTIP in Lagos State, be placed under the temporary care of the Cross River State Government through its Ministry of Social Welfare and Community Development.
The court further ruled that the victim should remain in government custody until she is released to a responsible family member capable of providing proper care and supervision.