TROOPS NAB 46 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN OGUN

TROOPS NAB 46 SUSPECTED ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN OGUN

Troops of the Nigerian Army, working in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), have arrested 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun State.

The suspects were apprehended during a targeted security operation carried out in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and surrounding communities following credible intelligence on their activities.

According to a statement by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had allegedly resided in the state for about six months without valid immigration documents.

The statement said the arrested individuals comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 from Côte d’Ivoire, four from Togo and one from Senegal. They include 36 males and 10 females.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly claimed to be merchants and workers associated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various products.

The Nigerian Army said the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ogun State Command, for further investigation and necessary administrative action in line with existing laws.

Commending the troops and other security agencies involved in the operation, Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements and activities to security authorities.

He noted that the operation reflects the commitment of security agencies to tackling illegal migration, strengthening internal security and protecting national interests.