Ogun police rescue 11 Ghanaians allegedly held hostage over visa scam

Police in Ogun State, Nigeria, have rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals who were allegedly held against their will after being lured to the country with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were rescued by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on October 19, 2026, following intelligence received by the police.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the officers acted swiftly on the information to locate the hideout and safely bring the victims to safety.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian who promised to facilitate their travel to Canada and Spain.

Each victim reportedly paid GH¢40,000 before being taken to Nigeria and detained against their will, the police said.

The command said the rescued individuals were receiving the necessary care and support, while detectives continued investigations to identify and arrest others linked to the alleged criminal network.

Ogun State Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its response and professionalism, reiterating the command’s commitment to protecting lives and tackling transnational crime.

He said the police would sustain efforts to ensure that Ogun State did not become a safe haven for criminals who exploit people’s hopes of travelling abroad.

“No safe haven for criminals who exploit the hopes of others,” Mr Ojajuni said, assuring the public that the search for those responsible would continue until they were brought to justice.

The police have urged the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

The command also reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led policing, collaboration with other security agencies and decisive action against criminal networks.

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

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