Operatives of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) have successfully rescued a 16-year-old domestic worker in the Gwarimpa area of Abuja, who was subjected to severe abuse and torture by her employer. The rescue operation was initiated following a crucial tip-off from concerned neighbours, who witnessed the egregious assault. In a statement released on Friday, September 26, 2025, NAPTIP confirmed the victim’s employer had poured hot water on her, leading to significant injuries.

Reports indicate that the young girl, a native of Imo State and the eighth child in a family of 12, was employed to care for her employer’s three children, including two-month-old twins and a seven-year-old boy. The employer reportedly worked at night, leaving the teenager solely responsible for the children. After being scalded with hot water, alert neighbours swiftly rushed the victim to a nearby hospital for medical attention before immediately contacting NAPTIP, prompting a rapid and decisive rescue operation by the agency.

NAPTIP has commenced a full and thorough investigation into the incident, assuring the public that all individuals involved in this heinous act will face the full weight of the law and be prosecuted accordingly. The agency has also issued a strong call to the public, urging them to report any suspected cases of trafficking or abuse to help protect vulnerable individuals.

This incident unfortunately adds to a growing list of domestic violence cases across Nigeria, many of which involve the use of hot water as a weapon. Such attacks have previously resulted in severe injuries and, in some tragic instances, fatalities. Notable past cases include a February 2022 incident where Ramota Soliu was reported to have caused the death of her husband, Bello Soliu, by pouring hot water on him in Abeokuta-North, Ogun State. Similarly, in September 2023, an 11-year-old girl named Princess was allegedly doused with hot water by her landlord, Michael, in Mowe, Ogun State, highlighting a disturbing pattern of violence.