Akure Ondo State (July 5 2025) – In an astonishing breakthrough that has been made by Ondo State Police Command has made a dramatic breakthrough. Ondo State Police Command has been able to dismantle an organized human trafficking network that was operating all across West African borders. The operation resulted in the rescue of forty Ghanaian citizens – 39 men and one woman, who were enticed to Nigeria with false pretexts.
According to the police, victims were swindled into believing that they would be offered that they would be able to secure lucrative employment and visas for Canada however, they ended up stuck in Akure which is which is the Ondo State capital. The most rescued victim included David Angerinya, who had been taken into Nigeria in 2024.
Three Arrested as Victims Recount Ordeal
The police have arrested three suspects, identified as Hayford Nyamekye Awine Alex as well as Kojo Felix. The suspects could be the core members of a wider trafficking organization which targets young and vulnerable people from Ghana.
Authorities have confirmed that the gang offered victims who were not aware with large amounts of money for visa processing that was not even in place as well as travel plans. Many of the victims were found to be with no valid travel documents or with expired documents.
The rescue was prompted by the filing of a formal complaint with the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja which triggered a quick reaction by the intelligence department of the state. The agents from the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) directed the operation and found the victims living in cramped and hazardous living environments.
Police Vow to Prosecute Accomplices
The Commissioner for Police, Adebowale Lawal, acknowledged the intelligence group and reiterated the police force’s dedication to tackling the organized human trafficking industry and other trans-border criminality.
The police revealed that the police are currently conducting investigations to find property owners and their attendants who might have had the intention of accommodating criminals and the victims. The police warned that anyone who is found to be complicit could be prosecuted to the fullest extent according to Nigerian and international law.
How the Syndicate Operated
Initial investigations showed that traffickers utilized a standard tactic, promising Canadian visas and work permits to assistance in return for a payment. After the victims arrived in Nigeria and were detained to a shackle, further extorted, and forced to live in squalid buildings under the watchful eye of.
Some of the victims had been held for months without communication with family members nor any idea on how to get back home.
Public Urged to Report Suspicious Activity
In his speech, CP Lawal urged the people to be vigilant and to report suspicious actions or people at the closest police station. He also stressed that cooperation with the community is vital in the fight against trafficking and in ensuring the safety of foreigners living in Nigeria.
Key Takeaways
- 40 Ghanaian nationals rescued in Akure, Ondo State.
- Three suspects were arrested and being investigated.
- Victims were tricked by false promises of visas and employment in Canada.
- Police promise to continue cracking down on trans-border trafficking.
