Army apprehends 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun

The troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Immigration Service, have arrested 46 suspected illegal immigrants in the state.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, on Sunday.

The Army PRO said the effort followed actionable intelligence which started last Thursday at various locations within Ijebu-Imushin, Ijebu-Ilese and surrounding communities within Ijebu East Local Government Area of the state.

He explained that preliminary investigation revealed that the 46 persons had been residing in the state for about six months without valid immigration documentation.

The Army spokesperson said, “During interrogation, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various commodities.

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“The arrested individuals comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 nationals of Côte d’Ivoire, 4 nationals of Togo and 1 national of Senegal. Among them are 36 males and 10 females.”

The suspects, according to him, had been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with extant laws.

Speaking on the operation, the Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance.

He also urged residents to remain security-conscious and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant security agencies.

The successful operation underscored the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combating illegal migration, enhancing internal security and safeguarding national interests.