A joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has led to the arrest of 46 suspected undocumented foreign nationals in parts of Ogun State.
Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, confirmed this in the statement issued to newsmen on Sunday.
Major Akari said the coordinated operation, which commenced on June 11, 2026, was carried out in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and neighbouring communities following credible intelligence on the presence of foreign nationals allegedly residing in the area without valid immigration documents.
He said security operatives conducted targeted raids at several locations, resulting in the apprehension of the suspects.
Preliminary investigations according to him, revealed that many of those arrested had reportedly lived within the communities for approximately six months without proper documentation authorising their stay in Nigeria.
During initial interrogation, the individuals claimed to be traders and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform engaged in the distribution and sale of various products.
Authorities, however, said investigations are ongoing to verify the claims and ascertain the exact nature of their activities within the state.
A breakdown of the arrested persons showed that 18 are citizens of Burkina Faso, 23 are from Côte d’Ivoire, four are Togolese nationals, while one is from Senegal. The group comprises 36 males and 10 females.
The military spokesman said the suspects have been transferred to the Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary administrative procedures in accordance with Nigeria’s immigration laws.
Major Akari said the operation underscores the commitment of security agencies to strengthening border security, enforcing immigration regulations and safeguarding national security.