Nigerian police force (NPF) have arrested and transferred a wanted fugitive to Benin Republic following a cross-border operation coordinated with Interpol, officials said on Sunday.

NPF said its Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) apprehended Sunday Kotin, a Beninese national accused of armed banditry, firearms smuggling, cattle rustling and drug trafficking.

He was detained in Idi Iroko, a border town in Ogun State, during an intelligence-led operation and later handed over to Benin’s Interpol bureau in Cotonou.

According to police, Kotin had fled into Nigeria to avoid trial, while seven members of his criminal network are already facing prosecution in Benin.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun commended the operatives for the arrest, stressing that Nigeria would not provide sanctuary for fugitives.

“Our partnership with international counterparts remains strong, and our commitment to justice is unwavering,” he said in a statement.

Nigeria and Benin share a long and porous border often exploited by smugglers and armed groups.

Authorities in both countries have sought closer cooperation through Interpol and regional bodies to combat cross-border crime, which has strained security in West Africa.

Police said the move reflects Nigeria’s wider efforts to strengthen international security collaboration and uphold the rule of law.