40 Ghanaians rescued as Ondo Police raid human trafficking syndicate
By Boye Oyeyemi –
The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a human trafficking syndicate operating from Akure, the state capital, rescuing 40 Ghanaian nationals brought into Nigeria under false pretences.
The breakthrough came after a petition was submitted through the Interpol Liaison Office at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, prompting the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) to launch a full-scale investigation.
The operation began with the rescue of one victim, David Angerinya, whose ordeal exposed a broader trafficking scheme. This led to the subsequent rescue of 39 other victims who were allegedly lured with promises of lucrative jobs and visa packages to countries like Canada.
Police spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed in a press statement that three suspects—Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix—had been arrested. All three are currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Preliminary findings revealed that the traffickers targeted citizens from other West African countries, enticing them with fraudulent employment offers and transporting them into Nigeria without valid travel documents.
“Upon arrival, the victims were subjected to exploitation and were found without valid documentation. Many had either expired papers or none at all,” the statement read.
The buildings used to house the victims are now under investigation, with efforts underway to identify and prosecute their owners or caretakers for possible complicity.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to fighting human trafficking and urged the public to report suspicious activities, assuring continued efforts to ensure safety and justice.
