The State Commander of the Neighbourhood Watch, an internal security outfit in Ebonyi, Prince Victor Chibuoyi Nwenyi, has disclosed that his office recently intercepted and prevented the trafficking of 32 youths out of the state.
Speaking in an interview, yesterday in Abakaliki, Nwenyi said the operation targeted groups masquerading as “millionaire trainers,” who lured teenagers under the pretext of entrepreneurship programmes, only to move them across state borders without parental consent.
“These youths were being gathered under the guise of learning to become millionaires. They were recruited from streets and schools without their parents’ knowledge. Our office intervened and handed them over to the police, and the parents were able to reclaim their children," he said.
According to Nwenyi, the operation reflects the office’s commitment to combating human trafficking and safeguarding the welfare of the state’s young population.
He emphasized that proactive measures, including public sensitization and collaboration with parents, have contributed to a sharp decline in trafficking cases in Ebonyi.
“Our approach is diplomatic and preventive. We go beyond enforcement to educate parents and communities on monitoring youths’ activities, especially on social media, which traffickers often exploit," he stated.
The commander also addressed misconceptions about the treatment of suspects during investigations, stating that all confessions are recorded on video and obtained without torture or coercion.
Nwenyi noted that his office works closely with the police and other security agencies to ensure recovered individuals and property are safely returned, citing a recent operation in which over 15 stolen motorcycles were retrieved in coordination with the Cross River State police.
He reiterated the Neighborhood Watch’s non-partisan stance, insisting that the office operates strictly on security grounds and does not engage in political activities, even during the current political season.
“Our mission is peace and security. Regardless of party affiliations, anyone involved in criminal activity will face the full weight of the law," he said.
The State Commander called on parents and community leaders to remain vigilant, noting that the proactive efforts of security agencies, combined with community cooperation, have significantly reduced human trafficking and other youth-related crimes in Ebonyi State.
