Police foil cross-border trafficking ring, rescue 15 in Osun
Osun State Police Rescue 15 Foreign Nationals from Alleged Trafficking Operation
Osun State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 15 foreign nationals believed to have been trafficked into Nigeria. The announcement was made in a statement from Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent of Police Abiodun Ojelabi, on Thursday.
Operatives from the State Intelligence Department acted on credible information to uncover the suspected trafficking network. According to the police, the victims were found in a three-bedroom apartment in Adeleke Estate, Osogbo, where they were allegedly being held under suspicious circumstances.
Preliminary investigations revealed that these individuals had been lured to Nigeria with false promises of employment and better living conditions. They were reportedly transported from Togo, Benin Republic, and Niger.
The police noted that the victims, aged between 20 and 30, are now receiving protective care while arrangements are being made for additional support and potential reunification with their families.
Several suspects associated with the trafficking operation fled upon learning of the police action. However, one individual identified as the agent who rented the apartment to the alleged traffickers has been arrested and is assisting investigators.
Commissioner Gotan emphasized the Command’s commitment to dismantling trafficking syndicates and other organized criminal networks in Osun State. He urged parents, guardians, and property owners to be vigilant and report any suspicious recruitment activities or unusual movements to security agencies.
