Abeokuta, Oct 21 — The Ogun State Police Command says it has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas, in a swift intelligence-led operation.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta, the state capital, the Command said: “Acting on actionable intelligence received on 19 October 2026, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit immediately mobilised to the identified hideout and safely rescued all eleven victims, comprising seven males and four females.”

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their overseas travel. Each reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and held against their will,” the statement added.

“The rescued victims are receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives intensify efforts to track down and apprehend all persons connected with the alleged criminal network.”

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism.

He reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to protect lives, combat transnational crime and ensure that Ogun State does not become a haven for criminals who exploit the hopes and trust of unsuspecting people. He assured the public that efforts would continue until those responsible are brought to justice.

The Command urged the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements before making payments, and to report suspicious activities.

“The Ogun State Police Command remains committed to intelligence-led policing, effective inter-agency collaboration and decisive action against criminal networks,” the statement said.

“For the Command, every credible lead matters, every life matters, and protecting the public remains paramount.”