The Ogun State Police Command has uncovered an alleged international visa fraud hideout in Sagamu, rescuing 11 Ghanaian nationals who were reportedly lured to Nigeria with false promises of securing Canadian and Spanish visas before being held against their will.
The command disclosed the development in a statement issued in Abeokuta, saying operatives of its Anti-Kidnapping Unit carried out the operation after receiving credible intelligence on October 19, 2026.
According to the police, “Acting on actionable intelligence received on 19 October 2026, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit immediately mobilised to the identified hideout and safely rescued all eleven victims, comprising seven males and four females.”
Preliminary investigations showed that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian who promised to facilitate their relocation abroad. Police said each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought into Nigeria, where they were allegedly detained against their will.
The command said the victims have been placed under proper care while investigations continue to dismantle the suspected cross-border criminal syndicate.
“The rescued victims are receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives intensify efforts to track down and apprehend all persons connected with the alleged criminal network,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, praised the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its swift response and professionalism in rescuing the victims.
He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives, combating cross-border crimes and preventing criminal syndicates from exploiting unsuspecting members of the public.
Ojajuni assured residents that all those linked to the alleged visa scam would be tracked down and brought to justice.
The police further advised Nigerians and foreigners seeking overseas opportunities to verify the authenticity of travel agents and visa processing arrangements before making payments, while urging the public to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Reaffirming its commitment to intelligence-led policing, the command declared, “For the Command, every credible lead matters, every life matters, and protecting the public remains paramount.”