Ghanaian victims rescued, five arrested in Ogun trafficking case
Cross-Border Operation Unveils Human Trafficking Network
In a significant cross-border operation, law enforcement authorities have successfully rescued a 24-year-old Ghanaian national from a human trafficking network and arrested five suspects. The operation took place in Ofada, Ogun State, involving both Nigerian and Ghanaian nationals. This collaboration highlights the growing efforts to tackle transnational crimes that affect multiple regions.
The operation was carried out by the International Police Annex and the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Alagbon in Lagos, following a formal request from INTERPOL Accra. The Nigeria Police Force has been actively working to combat various forms of crime, including human trafficking, through coordinated efforts with international agencies.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the operation led to the rescue of a victim who had been lured into Nigeria under false pretenses. The victim, along with his father, was allegedly enticed by a 25-year-old Ghanaian woman named Hassana Abban, who claimed to be facilitating their travel to Canada.
The suspect reportedly collected 40,000 cedis, equivalent to approximately N4,960,000, for the supposed travel arrangements. Once they arrived in Nigeria, the victims’ passports and mobile phones were allegedly taken, and they were forced to participate in activities related to fraudulent online trading platforms.
Following an assistance request from INTERPOL Accra on September 15, 2025, a special team was deployed to track the victims' location. The operation culminated in the successful rescue of the victims on September 16, 2025, in Ogun State. The police also arrested the principal suspect and four accomplices, including:
- Odubuasi David (Nigerian)
- Yahaya Salifu (Ghanaian)
- Sherifa Haruna (Ghanaian)
- Ebenezer Ofosu (Ghanaian)
All five suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing. The rescued individuals have since been reunited with their families in Ghana.
The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its commitment to regional collaboration in the fight against human trafficking and other transnational crimes. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the operatives for their professionalism and dedication. He assured the public and international partners that no criminal syndicate operating across borders would escape the consequences of their actions.
This recent success is part of a broader trend of similar operations across the region. In August 2025, police in Akwa Ibom State rescued 20 Ghanaians who had been trafficked into Uyo, following a formal request from the Ghana Police Service and INTERPOL. In July 2025, another Ghanaian, Sammed Iddrisu, was rescued in Abuja after being lured with false promises of foreign employment.
These operations underscore the importance of international cooperation in combating human trafficking. As more countries work together to share intelligence and resources, the chances of rescuing victims and apprehending perpetrators increase significantly. Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the need for vigilance and proactive measures to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Through sustained efforts and strong partnerships, the fight against human trafficking remains a top priority for law enforcement around the world. The recent successes serve as a reminder that while challenges persist, progress is being made in safeguarding lives and upholding justice.
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