The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 10 foreign nationals allegedly linked to a human trafficking ring uncovered in Akure, the state capital.
Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed the arrests during a press briefing on Sunday at the command headquarters. He said the suspects, primarily from the Republic of Benin, entered Nigeria illegally and were apprehended following intelligence reports of suspicious activity at a residence along Oda Road.
The operation also led to the rescue of a 29-year-old Congolese national, Nzaou Yelica Christ-Olse, who was reportedly lured into Nigeria under the guise of receiving online business training. According to the police, the victim was abandoned by the group upon arrival.
“On July 31, 2025, around 2:30 p.m., operatives of the command arrested ten foreign nationals in Akure,” Lawal said. “Investigations showed they crossed into Nigeria without valid documents. Some had expired passports; others had no identification at all.”
The arrested individuals were identified as: Atouh Joel (37), Mohamed Atta Amidou (35), Saibou Akateliwe (33), Abdul Jahao (26), Ndah Severin (27), Kumpori Ruth (19), Kumpori Martin (31), Tatiana Madous Dianne (32), Martias Sossa (22), and Ndapola Oba Giove (30).
Lawal described the case as a clear violation of Nigeria’s immigration laws and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act. He confirmed that the matter had been transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and prosecution.
He added that the rescued victim is currently safe and receiving care from the appropriate authorities.
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