The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 10 foreign nationals from the Republic of Benin over their alleged involvement in a human trafficking ring operating within the state.
Commissioner of Police, CP Lawal Adebowale, made this revelation on Sunday, August 3, 2025, during a press briefing held in Akure, the state capital.
According to CP Adebowale, the arrests were made on the evening of July 31, 2025, at approximately 8:30 PM. Officers from the command stormed residential buildings along Oda Road in Akure, where the suspects were residing, and took them into custody.
The individuals apprehended in connection with the case include: Atouh Joel, Mohamed Amidou, Saibou Akateliwe, Abdul Jahao, Ndah Severin, Kumpori Ruth, Kumpori Martin, Tatiana Dianne, Martias Sossa, and Ndapola Oba Giov.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had unlawfully entered Nigeria through irregular means, bypassing proper immigration protocols. While some were found carrying expired international passports, others possessed no travel documents at all.
Most alarming, however, was the discovery that the group had jointly conspired to smuggle a 29-year-old Congolese national, Nzaou Yelica Christ-Olse, into the country without his knowledge or consent.
“The victim was deceived into believing he was being assisted to establish an online business,” CP Adebowale explained. “But upon his arrival in Nigeria, the group completely abandoned him.”
The Commissioner emphasized that the actions of the suspects are not only illegal but also constitute serious violations of Nigeria’s immigration and anti-human trafficking laws.
In response to the gravity of the matter, the case has been transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and legal action.
Adebowale also confirmed that the Congolese victim is currently in safe custody and receiving necessary support from relevant authorities.
He went on to encourage residents of Ondo State to remain vigilant and proactive in sharing credible information that could aid law enforcement in curbing crime within the state.
“We deeply appreciate the cooperation of the public and urge continued partnership,” he said. “The command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all through professional, ethical, and responsive policing.”