Joint operation with vigilantes uncovers suspected illegal migrants from six West African countries as authorities launch investigation

Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested 24 foreign nationals during a targeted raid on a suspected hideout in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration and criminal networks.

The operation, carried out by soldiers of the 65 Battalion in collaboration with local vigilantes, followed credible intelligence pointing to the presence of undocumented individuals in a secluded, fenced compound at Imokun in the Odo-Noforija/Poka axis.

Military sources disclosed that the suspects include 15 males and nine females. Preliminary profiling revealed they are nationals of Cameroon (10), Togo (6), Côte d’Ivoire (3), Republic of Benin (3), Burkina Faso (1) and Guinea-Bissau (1).

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to ascertain their immigration status, the purpose of their stay in Nigeria, and any possible links to criminal activities. Security agencies are also working to identify and question the owner of the property where the group was discovered.

The suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Lagos State Command, for further investigation and appropriate action in accordance with immigration laws.

Commending the operation, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Major General Adebayo Babalola, urged troops to sustain pressure on criminal elements and prevent illegal immigrants from establishing safe havens within the state.