The Ogun State Police Command has successfully rescued nine foreign nationals and apprehended two suspects involved in a fraudulent scheme that lured victims to Nigeria under the pretence of facilitating travel to Europe. The operation, based on actionable intelligence from Interpol, highlights ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and cybercrime in the region.
Details of the Arrest and Rescue Operation
According to police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi, the suspects, identified as Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were arrested at their hideout in the Owode Egba area of Ogun State. The arrests followed a swift response to intelligence received on April 6, 2026, around noon, which led operatives to storm the location and free the victims.
Victims and Their Ordeal
The principal victim, Maclaud Owusu, a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, was rescued alongside eight others who had been held under similar circumstances. Babaseyi confirmed that the victims were deceived upon arrival in Nigeria, confined illegally, and had their mobile phones used to contact relatives and associates to demand money under false pretences.
Owusu was defrauded of approximately ₵31,000, equivalent to about N3.9 million, before police intervention. The suspects allegedly used sophisticated tactics to exploit the victims' hopes of traveling to Europe, underscoring the need for increased vigilance against such scams.
Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
In his statement, Babaseyi emphasized the command's commitment to tackling crimes involving foreign nationals. He noted, "The operation led to the successful rescue of the victim unhurt alongside eight other victims held under similar circumstances." The police are continuing their investigation to uncover any additional networks or accomplices linked to the case.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with international travel schemes and the importance of verifying offers through official channels. Authorities urge the public to report suspicious activities to help prevent similar crimes in the future.
