NAPTIP RECIEVED FORENSIC EQUIPMENTS FROM IOM

The National Agency for  Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP), has received forensic equipment from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria to enhance the capacity of the monitoring and investigation department of the Agency in forensic investigation.

The donation which is part of the IOM Counter Trafficking Initiative Project and will strengthen the capacity of NAPTIP and other trafficking stakeholder to protect trafficked person, was funded by the governments of Netherland, Italy and Norway.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony while receiving the items at NAPTIP Headquarter in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NAPTIP Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba said the donation is coming at a time when the Agency is undergoing both structural and systemic re-organization to reposition it for greater achievements.  This includes the setting up of Intelligence and International Cooperation Unit.

She said the equipment donated will help the Intelligence Unit to facilitate the work of investigation and support the prosecution of criminals.  Mrs. Jedy-Agba said the Agency has plans to set up a dedicated forensic laboratory in the first quarter of next year to facilitate investigation activities in the agency.

Speaking while handing over the equipments, the Chief of Mission IOM, Mr. Martins Ocaga said IOM has been partnering with Naptip since 2001 and recognizes the importance of forensic investigation in the work of combating organized crimes.  Mr. Ocaga said that the items donated will enable NAPTIP investigate personal computers, GSM telephones and other digital information carriers.

The Netherland Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Bert RonHaar and the Charge d Affairs of the Italian Embassy, Dr. Bazzani both witnessed the handover formalities.