Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit under the Ogun State Police Command have rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in a residential building in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria under false promises of securing Canadian and Spanish travel visas.
The successful intelligence-led raid was executed following credible information received by detectives on October 19, 2026.
The rescued victims, comprising seven adult males and four females—were safely extracted by law enforcement personnel and are currently receiving medical evaluation, social care, and psychological support from police authorities.
Preliminary investigations released by the command's spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, revealed that the victims fell prey to an elaborate transnational fraud syndicate operated by a fellow Ghanaian national.
The mastermind allegedly promised to facilitate seamless immigration, travel documentation, and work permits for Canada and Spain. As part of the arrangement, each victim was made to pay GH₵40,000 (Ghanaian Cedi), bringing the total sum extorted from the group to approximately ₦50.27 million.
Upon arriving in Nigeria under the guise of processing their final travel logistics, the victims were transported to a secluded facility in the Sagamu area of Ogun State, where they were confined against their will to prevent them from contacting family members or reporting the scheme to regulatory authorities.
Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for their swift response and tactical execution.
The police boss emphasized that Ogun State will not serve as a hiding zone or operational base for criminal networks preying on the trust of vulnerable citizens across the West African sub-region.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed that detectives are currently tracking several leads to arrest the main suspect and all collaborators connected to the international fraud network.
Meanwhile, police authorities have advised members of the public and international travelers to thoroughly verify visa agents, embassies, and overseas recruitment offers through certified channels before transferring funds or traveling across borders.