Libyan Police Arrest Two Nigerians for Kidnapping, Extortion of African Girl
By Okafor Joseph Afam
December 30, 2024
The Al-Qahira Police Department in Sabha, Libya, has apprehended two Nigerian nationals on charges of kidnapping an African girl and attempting to extort money from her.
According to a statement released by Migrant Rescue Watch on Sunday, the suspects were captured during a police operation that also resulted in the successful rescue of the victim. The suspects, who are undocumented migrants, have since been handed over to public prosecution for further legal action.
The statement from Migrant Rescue Watch read:
“Al-Qahira Police Dept. (Sabha) arrested 2 undocumented #migrants of Nigerian nationality responsible for kidnapping of an African girl and attempted extortion. Police during op successfully freed the victim and apprehended the perpetrators. Both accused were referred to public prosecution for legal action.”
Authorities have lauded the swift intervention by the police, noting that the operation underscores Libya’s commitment to addressing criminal activities involving undocumented migrants.
Sabha, located in southern Libya, is a known transit point for migrants from various African countries attempting to cross into Europe. Incidents of human trafficking, extortion, and other crimes involving migrants are not uncommon in the region.
The arrest of the suspects and the rescue of the victim have been hailed as a victory against crimes targeting vulnerable individuals. Authorities have called for increased vigilance and international cooperation to combat such incidents.
Further details on the case, including the identities of the suspects and the victim, remain undisclosed pending the conclusion of the investigation.
