The Ogun State Police Command has rescued nine foreign nationals and arrested two suspects in connection with a transnational fraud syndicate operating a deceptive travel scheme in the state.
The suspects, identified as Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit at their hideout in the Owode Egba area following intelligence received through INTERPOL.
The statement signed by the state Police PRO, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi disclosed that the operation, carried out around noon on April 6, 2026, led to the rescue of a Ghanaian national, Maclaud Owusu, aged 40, who was allegedly being held against his will. Eight other victims were also found in similar conditions at the location.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate specialises in luring foreign nationals, particularly from Ghana, to Nigeria under the false promise of facilitating travel to Europe. Upon arrival, victims are reportedly deceived, confined, and coerced into contacting their families to extort money.
Owusu was said to have been defrauded of 31,000 Ghana Cedis before the police intervention.
The suspects were arrested at the scene, while the victims have been secured and are receiving necessary support. Police authorities confirmed that Owusu has been reunited with his family, while efforts are ongoing to reconnect the other victims with their relatives.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Bode Ojajuni, commended the оперативes for their professionalism and swift response, noting that the success of the operation was bolstered by collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.
He reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for criminal activities and assured that efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large.
Police authorities also advised members of the public to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of travel agents when making international travel arrangements to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
