Ogun Police Dismantle Cameroonian Human Trafficking Syndicate Posing as Visa Agents

Police in Ogun State have busted a Cameroonian human trafficking ring that allegedly lured victims into Nigeria under the guise of securing Canadian visas, only to hold them hostage for ransom.

The operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command after a distress call from one of the victims, who managed to escape from captivity in the Pakuro area of Obafemi Owode Local Government.

Police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, said the victim—a Cameroonian national—was deceived by one Donald, a fellow Cameroonian, who promised to process a Canadian visa for her. She travelled to Nigeria on September 29, 2025, alongside her younger sister, believing she was dealing with a legitimate travel agency.

“On arrival at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, they were received by the supposed agents and taken to Mowe in Ogun State, where they were held hostage,” Odutola said.

According to the police, the victim’s family in Cameroon paid a ransom of 3.6 million CFA francs into Donald’s account before she managed to escape on November 3, 2025, and alert authorities.

A tactical team swiftly stormed the hideout, rescuing another victim, Kengne Maeva, and arresting two male suspects — Ndzana Kamga Isidore and Tingue Stephen. The ringleader, Donald, remains on the run.

Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, commended the officers for the successful operation and ordered intensified surveillance against similar cross-border trafficking schemes.

He directed community leaders and landlords to immediately report any suspicious foreign tenants to security agencies.

The arrest comes days after another suspect, Elizabeth Thomson, was detained for allegedly defrauding three Nigerians of ₦8.5 million in a separate fake Canadian visa scam, suggesting a growing network of fraudulent migration rackets targeting unsuspecting victims.

Police vowed to track down the fleeing suspect and ensure justice for all victims.