Monday, August 4, 2025 - The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 10 nationals of the Republic of Benin over an illegal human trafficking business in the state.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Lawal Adebowale,
disclosed this on Sunday, August 3, 2025 while speaking with journalists in
Akure.
The arrested suspects include: Atouh Joel, Mohamed Amidou,
Saibou Akateliwe, Abdul Jahao, Ndah Severin, Kumpori Ruth, Kumpori Martin,
Tatiana Dianne, Martias Sossa and Ndapola Oba Giov.
“On July 31, 2025, at about 20.30 pm, operatives of the
command apprehended 10 foreign nationals at their respective residences along
Oda Road, Akure,” the CP stated.
"These individuals were discovered to have illegally
smuggled themselves into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin.
"Some of them were in possession of expired
international passports, while others had no valid travel documents whatsoever.
"Investigations revealed that these suspects criminally
conspired to bring one Nzaou Yelica Christ-Olse (male, 29 years, Congolese)
into Nigeria without his consent.
“The victim, who was deceived under the pretence of
receiving assistance to start an online business. He was later abandoned by the
group upon arrival.”
The commissioner noted that offence allegedly committed by
the suspects constituted a clear violation of Nigeria’s immigration and
anti-trafficking laws.
“The case has since been transferred to the relevant
departments, including the Nigeria Immigration Service and the National Agency
for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons for further investigation and
prosecution.
"The victim is safe, in custody of the authorities, and
receiving appropriate support,” Adebowale added.
The CP urged the people of the state to field the command with useful information that could assist it in the fight against crimes and criminalities across the state.
“The command will continue to count on the support, vigilance, and credible information from the good people of Ondo State. We reaffirm our resolve to provide a safe and secure environment for all residents through lawful, ethical, and responsive policing.”
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