Akure, July 5, 2025 — Operatives of the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) of the Ondo State Police Command have rescued 40 Ghanaian nationals allegedly trafficked into Nigeria and busted a human trafficking syndicate operating in Akure.

According to a press release signed by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the breakthrough followed a petition routed through the Interpol Liaison Office, Force Headquarters, Abuja, requesting urgent intervention in a transnational trafficking case involving a Ghanaian man, David Angerinya.

The victim was reportedly lured into Nigeria in 2024 by an unnamed associate under the guise of securing employment. Following a swift investigation led by DSP Lekan Alabi, three suspects identified as Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix were arrested, and Angerinya was successfully rescued.

Further probe into the operation revealed a wider syndicate responsible for trafficking unsuspecting West African nationals into Nigeria under false promises of job opportunities and visa arrangements to Canada and other Western countries.

“An additional thirty-nine Ghanaians were discovered to have fallen victim to the network,” the statement disclosed. Many of the victims were found without valid travel documents, while others carried expired papers.

The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. The police are also intensifying efforts to apprehend property owners and caretakers of the buildings used to harbor the victims, as they are suspected

to have been complicit in the criminal activities.

Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc+, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for human trafficking and other transnational crimes. He called on members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.