The Libyan government has detained a top Nigerian female human trafficker, Maria Oda, following it’s agreement with the Federal Government.

The woman, also known as Hajiya Aisha in Tripoli, is believed to have trafficked more than 80 women and girls to Libya.

As at yesterday, one of the returnees revealed that many Nigerians are still imprisoned at a Libyan town where people connect Europe through Italy.

One of the 560 returnees from Libya, Mr Paul Eke, said in Port Harcourt yesterday that the Federal Government should do more by evacuating some Nigerians who are still trapped in some interior parts of Libya.

He said, ‘I stayed in Zawe Superata, this place is like an exit point to Italy and so many Nigerians are still being imprisoned there.’ He thanked the federal government for ensuring a smooth return of migrants, adding that it showed the government’s love for its citizens.

Intelligence reports had it that Maria Oda was a “notorious” member of a group recruiting young girls for prostitution, slavery, menial jobs and exodus to Libya, Spain and Italy.

According to a top source, She is expected to be tried in Tripoli.

The source said: “After being trailed for many months, she was arrested. Her profile showed that she is from Akwa Ibom. She is using the fake name Hajiya Aisha.”

She has been running a human trafficking ring for many years and has up to 80 girls under her control. She is presently under detention at the Tajoura Detention Centre inTripoli.

“Three of her victims have been lined up by the Libyan government to stand as witnesses during her trial. Immediately the affected girls complete their testimony, they will be evacuated to Nigeria.”

‘The Federal Government delegation was briefed about the illegal activities of Maria Oda.’

‘I think if the agreement between Libya and the Federal Government is firmed up, the suspect may serve her jail term in a Nigerian prison.’

‘The Federal Government has been working in agreement with Libyan authorities to track down those behind trafficking to the North African country through Niger Republic.’

A member of the government delegation said, ‘We are aware of the arrest of the suspect, we have been told. We are awaiting the outcome of her trial.’

Good for her