The Ondo State Police Command has successfully rescued 40 Ghanaian nationals, including one David Angerinya, who were reportedly trafficked into Nigeria under the guise of lucrative job opportunities and promises of foreign visas.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, revealed this in a statement on Saturday, confirming that the victims were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) in Akure.
Police reports indicate that Angerinya was lured to Nigeria in 2024 with the promise of a job by an unidentified accomplice. Acting on intelligence, the TIRS team, led by DSP Lekan Alabi, conducted a targeted operation that led to the arrest of three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix.
According to Ayanlade, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are prominent members of a larger syndicate that lures West African nationals with false promises of jobs and visa opportunities to countries such as Canada.
The investigation further revealed 39 other Ghanaian victims who were allegedly trafficked into the country through the same scheme. Several lacked valid travel documents, while others carried expired papers.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of organized crime in the state. He also encouraged residents to promptly report any suspicious activities to law enforcement through the appropriate channels.
This latest development highlights Nigeria’s continuing battle against transnational crime and emphasizes the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation to tackle human trafficking across West Africa.
Source: GIST MINIA