Ogun state Police Command have rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held against their will in Sagamu after being lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas.

The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were rescued by operatives of the state police command’s anti-kidnapping unit following an intelligence-led operation on 19 October .

In a statement signed by the command’s public relations officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, he disclosed that preliminary investigations suggest that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel abroad. Each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and held against their will.

Babaseyi said the rescued victims were receiving care and support, while detectives continued efforts to identify and arrest others suspected of being involved in the alleged criminal network.

The state commissioner of police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the anti-kidnapping unit for its swift response and professionalism.

He said the command remained committed to protecting lives, tackling transnational crime and preventing criminals from exploiting people seeking opportunities abroad.

The police chief assured the public that efforts would continue to bring those responsible to justice.

He urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

The command said it would continue to rely on intelligence-led policing and collaboration with other agencies to tackle criminal networks in the state.