The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five Congolese nationals suspected to be victims of human trafficking after they were allegedly brought into Nigeria with promises of better economic opportunities.
The victims were rescued at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan during an intelligence-led operation, according to a statement issued by the police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, on October 14, 2026.
The rescued individuals were identified as Bonsaly Mpika Donel, 24; Charles Siloe, 23; Eliane Ruth Makengo, 26; Makota Janie Darcel, 23; and Simba Babeki Elie, 33.
During preliminary questioning, the victims reportedly told investigators that a man identified only as Smith, who is said to be a national of the Republic of Benin, brought them into Nigeria after promising them improved economic prospects.
“The victims disclosed that a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, had lured them into Nigeria on the promise of greener pasture and better economic opportunities,” the police statement said.
However, the suspect was reportedly absent from the hotel when officers carried out the operation.
The command said efforts were ongoing to locate and apprehend him as investigations continued into the suspected trafficking operation.
The police added that the five rescued nationals had received medical attention and would be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Oyo State for further action.
The command also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist investigators in identifying and apprehending anyone connected with the alleged crime.
Human trafficking involves the exploitation of people through means such as deception, coercion or abuse of vulnerability. In this case, the allegations against the suspected recruiter remain subject to investigation, and the circumstances surrounding the victims’ recruitment and movement into Nigeria have yet to be fully established.
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