The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five nationals of the Republic of Congo suspected to be victims of human trafficking during an intelligence-led operation at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that the operation followed credible intelligence. The Commissioner of Police subsequently directed operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to act immediately.
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.
According to the police, preliminary questioning revealed that the five individuals were allegedly lured into Nigeria by a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, who promised them better economic opportunities and improved living conditions.
However, the suspect was not found at the hotel during the operation. Police said efforts were ongoing to trace and arrest him.
Following their rescue, the five Congolese nationals received medical attention and underwent medical examinations, according to the command.
The Commissioner of Police has also directed that they be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Oyo State Command, for further action in line with established procedures.
The police reiterated their commitment to fighting human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals. The command also urged members of the public to provide credible and actionable information that could help identify and apprehend anyone connected to the suspected trafficking operation.
