Operatives of the Osun State Police Command have rescued 15 foreign nationals and arrested one suspected human trafficker during a raid, while other suspects reportedly fled the scene.
According to a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the victims—comprising citizens of Togo, Benin Republic, and Niger—were lured into Nigeria under false promises of employment and improved welfare.
Ojelabi stated, “The Osun State Police Command has successfully rescued fifteen (15) young persons who were victims of a suspected human trafficking syndicate during a coordinated, intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the State Intelligence Department (SID).”
The operation underscores the command’s commitment to tackling human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals within and across its borders.
“Acting on credible information, officers of the Command rescued the victims from traffickers who had allegedly deceived them with false promises of employment and better living opportunities outside their home Countries.”
He explained that preliminary investigations reveal that, the victims were being transported to Nigeria from Togo, Benin Republic and Niger and kept inside a three-bedroom flat at Adeleke Estate, Osogbo under suspicious circumstances before the intervention of the Police.
“The rescued individuals are: Moise Nanga ‘m’ 30yrs, Myriam Yakouba ‘f’ 28yrs, Rostand Joseph ‘m’ 29yrs, Mouris Kassoko ‘m’ 26yrs, Bicosso Nadia ‘f’ 22yrs, Samoru Ilan Azote ‘m’ 20yrs, Doris Samnat ‘f’ 23yrs, Zogo Miichelle ‘f’ 25yrs, Nebi Sera ‘f’ 21yrs, Moeva Loure ‘f’ 23yrs, Awa Asoka ‘f’ 25yrs, Sonara Rene ‘m’ 26yrs, Ella Cadore ‘m’ 24yrs, Odil Mapa ‘f’ 25yrs, and Madji Sanni ‘f’ 22yrs.”
The Police Public Relations Officer said “they are currently receiving necessary attention and protective care. The Police Command is collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure their proper rehabilitation and reunification with their families.”
He confirmed that “Some suspect(s) connected to this criminal act have absconded, but the Command is on their trail. However, the agent that gave out the house to these criminal elements has been arrested and he is assisting the Police in the ongoing investigations.
“The Commissioner of Police, Osun State Command, CP Ibrahim Gotan, mnips reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of organized crime. He urged parent, guardians and house owners to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or recruitment schemes to the nearest security agents.”
