The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reportedly rescued 25 Ivorian nationals and arrested eight suspects during a coordinated operation in Ogun State.

The rescue mission comes in response to a formal request from the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abidjan.

According to a press release issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Friday, the operation was launched following a report filed on April 23, 2025, by Mrs. Kaussi Amenan Marianman.

The report alleged that her son, Ladji Yoa Pierre, had been deceived into travelling to Nigeria under false promises of acquiring travel documents to Belgium by individuals identified as Simon Oliver and Michael Odunga.

According to the report, once in Nigeria, Pierre was held captive, and a ransom of 2.5 million CFA (approximately ₦6.625 million) was demanded.

"In a swift response, the Commissioner of Police INTERPOL Annex, Lagos, CP Bode Ojajuni, deployed a specialised investigative team to locate and rescue the victims.

On May 5, 2025, officers raided Osehi Hotel in Ado-Odo Ota, Ogun State, where they rescued two victims and apprehended two suspects.

"Further intelligence-led operations in Ejegun Itele, Ado-Odo-Ota, led to the liberation of 23 additional victims, including Pierre, and the arrest of six more suspects.

"Following the successful mission, Ladji Yoa Pierre was reunited with his mother, Mrs. Kaussi Amenan, who traveled from Abidjan for the handover.

The remaining 24 victims were transferred to the Nigerian Immigration Service’s Zone ‘A’ Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, for further processing, while the arrested suspects remain in custody for ongoing investigation and potential prosecution.

"The NCB Abidjan, in a letter dated May 6, 2025, commended the Nigeria Police Force and INTERPOL Unit for their swift and professional action, expressing hope for continued collaboration in combating trans-border criminal networks.

"The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the operatives involved for their dedication, stating that Nigeria would not be a safe haven for criminals, regardless of their nationality," Olujobi stated.