Ondo tactical squad arrests three suspects, uncovers transnational syndicate
Akure, Ondo State – The Ondo State Police Command rescued 40 Ghanaian nationals from a human trafficking syndicate operating in the state. The operation led to three arrests and exposed a network targeting West Africans with false employment promises.
Police Operation Details
The Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) acted on a petition received through the Interpol Liaison Office. DSP Lekan Alabi led the team that intercepted the trafficking ring.
“Acting swiftly on the report, detectives from the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS), led by DSP Lekan Alabi, commenced a targeted investigation,” said DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the command’s spokesperson, in a statement released Saturday.
Police arrested three suspects identified as Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix. The rescued victims included David Angerinya and 39 other Ghanaian nationals.
Transnational Network Exposed
The investigation revealed the suspects operate as part of a larger trafficking network targeting West African countries. The syndicate used false promises to recruit victims.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are part of a larger transnational trafficking syndicate that specialise in deceiving unsuspecting individuals, particularly from neighboring West African countries,” Ayanlade explained.
The suspects promised victims legitimate employment opportunities and better living conditions to convince them to travel to Nigeria. Victims discovered the false nature of these promises after arriving in Ondo State.
Document Violations Found
Police found many rescued victims had expired travel documents or lacked proper documentation. The investigation revealed potential local involvement in the trafficking operation.
“Many victims were found with expired or no travel documents,” Ayanlade noted. He added that building owners and caretakers may have had knowledge of or directly facilitated the syndicate’s illegal activities.
The command is investigating the extent of local collaboration with the trafficking network.
Police Commitment
Commissioner of Police Mr. Adebowale Lawal assured the public of the command’s commitment to fighting human trafficking in the state.
The commissioner “assured the public of the command’s resolve to fight human trafficking,” Ayanlade stated. Lawal urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.
The command is coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure proper care for the rescued victims and facilitate their safe return to Ghana.
By Kayode Ojo
