The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 25 Ivorian nationals in a major anti-trafficking operation, including Ladji Yoa Pierre — the subject of an international alert from Interpol Abidjan.
The operation followed a report from his mother, who said Mr. Pierre had been lured to Nigeria with false promises of travel documents to Belgium, then held for ransom.
Acting swiftly, officers from Interpol Lagos, led by CP Bode Ojajuni, raided two locations in Ogun State, freeing the captives and arresting eight suspects.
Mr Pierre has since been reunited with his mother.
The other 24 victims were handed over to immigration authorities, while investigations into the suspects continue.
Interpol Abidjan praised the swift action, calling it a model of cross-border cooperation.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the team and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to making Nigeria a no-go zone for international criminals.
