Nigerian Couple Arrested for Allegedly Trafficking 11 Liberian Children to The Gambia for Child Labour

The Gambia's National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP) has rescued eleven Liberian nationals who are suspected of being victims of human trafficking and child labour exploitation.

This information was shared in a statement issued on Thursday, 18th June 2026.

According to the statement, a Nigerian national named Mr.

Bola, along with his wife, Khadijatou Sillah, is alleged to have recruited and transported the children under the pretense that they would be enrolled in school.

"The National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP) wishes to inform the public that it has successfully intercepted and rescued eleven (11) Liberian nationals suspected to be victims of human trafficking and child labour exploitation in The Gambia," the statement said.

"The victims, consisting of seven minors and four young adults aged between 12 and 19 years, were found during an operation carried out by NAATIP officers at a construction site where they were reportedly subjected to exploitative working conditions.

"Initial investigations show that the victims were brought to The Gambia from Liberia by a Nigerian national named Mr.

Bola, aged 60, along with his wife, Khadijatou Sillah.

"The suspects allegedly promised the children that they would be enrolled in school and provided with vocational and livelihood skills training to secure a better future.

"However, the investigations revealed that upon arrival in The Gambia, the children were instead forced into construction work without pay and denied the education and training they had been promised.

"The victims were reportedly working in conditions that indicate serious concerns of child labour exploitation and human trafficking.

"After their rescue, the victims were placed in protective custody where they are receiving necessary care, psychosocial support, and assistance in line with the Victims Protection provisions of The Gambia's Trafficking in Persons Act.

"NAATIP is also working closely with relevant parties, including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, law enforcement agencies, and the Liberian authorities, to ensure the protection and well-being of the victims.

"The suspects are currently assisting with the investigation, and NAATIP is following all relevant leads to determine the full scope of the alleged trafficking network and any other individuals who may have been affected.

"NAATIP strongly condemns all forms of human trafficking, child labour exploitation, and abuse of vulnerable individuals.

The Agency remains committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those responsible while ensuring the protection and rehabilitation of victims.

"The public is urged to remain alert and report any suspected cases of trafficking in persons, child exploitation, forced labour, or related crimes to NAATIP or the nearest law enforcement agency.

"Human trafficking is a serious crime and a violation of basic human rights.

Together, we can protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that those who commit these crimes are held accountable."