The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held against their will in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas in a suspected international fraud scheme valued at ₦50.27 million.
The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were rescued by operatives of the Anti Kidnapping Unit following actionable intelligence received on October 19, 2026. The police said the operation was swiftly executed, leading to the safe recovery of all 11 victims from their alleged captors.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian who promised to facilitate their travel to Canada and Spain. Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and subsequently held against their will.
The Command said the rescued victims were receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives continued investigations to identify, track and arrest all individuals linked to the alleged criminal network. The police did not disclose further details about the suspects or the circumstances surrounding the victims’ movement into Nigeria.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism, reaffirming the Command’s determination to tackle transnational crimes and protect vulnerable persons from exploitation.
Ojajuni warned that the Command would not provide a safe haven for criminals who prey on the hopes and trust of unsuspecting people. He assured residents and the public that efforts would continue until everyone connected with the alleged scheme was brought to justice.
The police urged Nigerians and foreign nationals seeking overseas travel opportunities to verify visa agents and immigration arrangements before making payments. Members of the public were also advised to report suspicious activities that could indicate fraud, unlawful confinement or human trafficking.
The Command reiterated its commitment to intelligence led policing, inter agency collaboration and decisive action against criminal networks. The statement was issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, on behalf of the Ogun State Police Command.