The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a transnational human trafficking syndicate operating in Akure, the state capital and rescued 40 Ghanaians allegedly trafficked into Nigeria under false pretences.
The police said the rescue operation was carried out by the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS), following a petition forwarded through the Interpol Liaison Office at Force Headquarters in Abuja.
A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, cited a petition that highlighted the case of a Ghanaian citizen, David Angerinya, who was reportedly lured to Nigeria in 2024 with promises of employment.
According to the PPRO, upon investigation, the TIRS team, led by DSP Lekan Alabi, uncovered a wider trafficking operation which led to the arrest of Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex and Kojo Felix.
Ayanlade said that while David Angerinya was successfully rescued, further investigations revealed that additional 39 Ghanaians had also fallen victim to the same trafficking syndicate.
He said, “Many victims lacked valid travel documents while others held expired papers. Investigators believe the syndicate preyed on vulnerable individuals from West African nations, luring them with promises of jobs in Nigeria and fake visa arrangements to Canada and other Western countries.
“These criminals exploit desperation and poverty. Their actions are not only illegal but deeply inhumane.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal who condemned the syndicate’s actions affirmed the command’s commitment to protecting all residents and visitors in Ondo State.
“This is a serious case of human rights abuse. Our command will continue to collaborate with national and international partners to clamp down on human trafficking and ensure justice for the victims.
“All three suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. Authorities are also pursuing the owners and caretakers of properties where the victims were housed, as they may be complicit in the illegal operation,” CP Lawal said.
He also urged the public to stay alert and report suspicious activities, adding that, “We are calling on all well-meaning citizens to work with the police. Human trafficking thrives in silence – speak up.”
