Reports

11 Ghanaians held hostage in Nigeria over promise of Canadian visa by fraudsters

The police command in Ogun says it has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The command, in a statement on Tuesday by its spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi, said, “Operatives of the anti-kidnapping unit immediately mobilised to the identified hideout and safely rescued all 11 victims, comprising seven males and four females.”

According to the command, preliminary investigations indicated that a Ghanaian national allegedly deceived the victims by promising to help them travel overseas.

“Each reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and held against their will,” the statement added.

The command noted that the rescued victims were receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives intensified efforts to track down and apprehend all persons connected with the alleged criminal network.

The police commissioner, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their prompt response and professionalism and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protect lives, combat transnational crime and ensure safety in the state.