In a significant victory against transnational crime, the Nigeria Police Force has rescued 25 Ivorian nationals and apprehended eight suspects in a coordinated operation across Ogun State.
The operation followed a formal request from the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abidjan, after a report was filed by Mrs. Kaussi Amenan Marianman on April 23, 2025. She alleged that her son, Ladji Yoa Pierre, had been lured to Nigeria under false pretenses by two individuals—Simon Oliver and Michael Odunga—who promised to secure travel documents to Belgium. Once in Nigeria, he was held captive and a ransom of 2.5 million CFA francs (about ₦6.6 million) was demanded.
Responding promptly, Commissioner of Police INTERPOL, Annex Lagos, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, deployed a special investigative team. On May 5, 2025, officers raided Osehi Hotel in Ado-Odo Ota, Ogun State, rescuing two victims and arresting two suspects. A follow-up operation in Ejegun Itele led to the rescue of 23 more victims, including Ladji Yoa Pierre, and the arrest of six additional suspects.
Ladji was reunited with his mother, who traveled from Abidjan, while the remaining victims were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service Zone ‘A’ Headquarters in Ikeja for further action. The eight suspects remain in custody and are under investigation ahead of possible prosecution.
In a letter dated May 6, 2025, NCB Abidjan commended the Nigeria Police and its INTERPOL Unit for the swift and effective operation, expressing optimism for deeper collaboration in combating cross-border crimes.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, praised the officers involved and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to making Nigeria uninhabitable for transnational criminals.
The operation was detailed in a press release by Assistant Commissioner of Police Muyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer.