NAPTIP Launches Manhunt for Child Exploitation Syndicate Following PUNCH Investigation

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has initiated a nationwide manhunt for individuals involved in a child pornography ring exposed in a recent two-part investigative report by PUNCH Newspaper. The investigation uncovered how underage Nigerian boys were lured, groomed, and sexually exploited on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) for financial gain.

NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, alongside the agency’s Cybercrime Response Team, is spearheading the probe. Mr. Titus Ngamariju, head of the Cybercrime team, confirmed efforts to track down the perpetrators behind the now-suspended X account.

“It is too late for those responsible,” Ngamariju stated. “We have commenced a full-scale investigation. The Director-General is personally involved to ensure the criminals face justice. We will also collaborate with the Ministry of Women Affairs to provide counseling and psychological support for the victims.”

The agency is working closely with other government bodies, including INTERPOL, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Ministry of Justice, and the Nigeria Police Force, to dismantle the syndicate. A specialized CyberCrime Joint Team, inaugurated recently by the Attorney-General, has been established to combat such cyber offenses.

The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs pledged its commitment to the victims’ rehabilitation, with spokesperson Jonathan Eze affirming that the ministry is monitoring the case closely under Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s leadership.

“The Ministry will ensure the abused children receive comprehensive psychological care and rehabilitation,” Eze added.

The Nigeria Police Force has also acknowledged the investigation and assured prompt action. Similarly, the National Film and Video Censors Board commended the PUNCH reporter for his courageous exposé and confirmed collaboration with cybercrime agencies.

Following the investigation, X permanently suspended the implicated account, reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on child sexual exploitation.

This coordinated response marks a critical step toward protecting vulnerable children from cyber exploitation in Nigeria.