••• Police Bust Suspected Trafficking Ring
A human trafficking and illegal immigration ring has been uncovered by the Ondo State Police Command following the arrest of ten foreign nationals believed to have been smuggled into Nigeria from the Republic of Benin.
The arrest, which took place on July 31st along Oda Road in Akure, revealed a disturbing plot involving expired passports, fake entry into the country, and a Congolese victim who was allegedly lured into Nigeria under false pretenses.
According to Commissioner of Police, CP Lawal Adebowale, the arrested individuals include both men and women between the ages of 19 and 37. Some were in possession of expired international passports, while others had no travel documents whatsoever.
Most alarming, however, was the discovery of a Congolese national, Nzaou Yelica Christ-Olse (29), who was reportedly brought into Nigeria without his consent.
He told investigators he had been deceived with promises of support to start an online business, only to be abandoned by the group after arrival.
Arrested Suspects Include:
Atouh Joel (37, male), Mohamed Atta Amidou (35, male), Saibou Akateliwe (33, male), Abdul Jahao (26, male), Ndah Severin (27, male), Kumpori Ruth (19, female), Kumpori Martin (31, male), Tatiana Madous Dianne (32, female), Martias Sossa (22, male) and Ndapola Oba Giove (30, male)
According to the CP, Police investigations revealed a coordinated effort among the suspects to facilitate illegal entry into Nigeria and possibly use the country as a trafficking corridor.
“This act constitutes a clear violation of Nigeria’s immigration and anti-trafficking laws,” CP Adebowale stated during a press briefing held in Akure.
He confirmed that the case has been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and prosecution.
The Congolese victim is currently in the custody of authorities and receiving necessary care and support.
Ondo State: Emerging Trafficking Hotspot?
The incident has raised questions about increasing trans-border trafficking activities and the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders, especially in Southwest states like Ondo.
Concerned observers are calling for tighter immigration checks, stricter landlord accountability, and greater community awareness to prevent similar cases.
The police, while assuring continued surveillance, have urged the public to report suspicious movement and avoid offering safe havens to undocumented migrants.
