The Niger State Police Command apprehended a ten-member human trafficking syndicate in Minna, the state capital.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, who revealed this in a statement on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, stated that the syndicate is believed to specialize in the international trafficking of unsuspecting victims to various locations through deceptive practices as travel agents.
According to the PPRO, nine of the suspects originate from different neighboring West African countries and are also involved in extorting their victims.
Abiodun noted that the operation resulted in the rescue of 36 youths from various African nations, including Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Burkina-Faso, and Guinea.
“The suspects were arrested on 18th July, 2025 at about 12.30pm based on credible intelligence received of their activities along 123 Quarters, Minna,” the statement read.
“The suspects arrested are; Sokou Doumbia, Thiarno Balbe, Hashimu Dauda Kolo, Usman Doumbia, Musa Konate, Lamine Watara, Racine Diouf, Adamu Zarbu, Alhassan Konde and Dango Aminatu.
“They were discovered to be indigenes in various neighbouring West African Countries and could basically speak in French, except their Nigerian collaborator, Hashimu who provides accommodation for the syndicate in Minna and one other.
“The operation led to the rescue of thirty-six youths of different countries such as Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Burkina-Faso and Guinea without any documents.
During interrogation, they claimed they had come to Nigeria for an online business.
“However, all the suspects and the victims were transferred to the Interpol for further investigation and other necessary actions.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli