Troops Arrest 46 Suspected Undocumented Foreign Nationals in Ogun

Security operatives have arrested 46 suspected undocumented foreign nationals during a coordinated operation in Ogun State, according to reports from Vanguard and P.M. News.

The operation was carried out by troops of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigeria Immigration Service.

The suspects were picked up in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and neighbouring communities after intelligence reports triggered a targeted security operation. Vanguard reported that the operation began on June 11, while P.M. News cited the Army statement issued by Major Idereghi Akari, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade.

The Army listed the suspects as 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 from Côte d’Ivoire, four from Togo and one from Senegal. They include 36 males and 10 females.

Preliminary checks indicated that the suspects had allegedly lived in the area for about six months without valid immigration documents. During interrogation, they reportedly said they were merchants and workers linked to QNet, an online marketing platform.

The suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ogun State Command, for further investigation and administrative action.

The Commander of 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Onu, commended the agencies involved and urged residents to report suspicious movements or activities to security authorities.

The arrests come at a time of wider security concerns across Nigerian communities, with security agencies increasing joint operations around border movement, internal security and suspected criminal networks.

Sources: Vanguard, P.M. News