Nigerian Army arrests 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun

The Nigerian Army has announced that its forces, in collaboration with the Department of State Services, DSS, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, have detained 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun State.

In a statement issued by Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, it was reported that the operation, which began on June 11, 2026, resulted in the apprehension of the suspects at various sites within Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese, and nearby communities during a focused security initiative.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the individuals had reportedly been living in the state for around six months without valid immigration documentation.

“During questioning, the suspects asserted that they were merchants and workers associated with QNet, an online marketing platform engaged in the sale of diverse commodities,” the statement noted.

It further detailed that the arrested individuals included 18 nationals from Burkina Faso, 23 from Côte d’Ivoire, 4 from Togo, and 1 from Senegal, comprising 36 males and 10 females.

The statement confirmed that the suspects have been transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative measures in line with existing laws.

Commenting on the operation, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, praised the troops and the cooperating security agencies for their professionalism and alertness. He also encouraged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the appropriate security authorities.

The army emphasized that this successful operation highlights its dedication, along with that of other security agencies, to addressing illegal migration, improving internal security, and protecting national interests.