Immigrants: Multi-agency coordinated raid apprehends foreign nationals without valid documentation; suspects linked to online marketing platform
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), have apprehended 46 suspected illegal immigrants during a targeted security operation in Ogun State.
The coordinated raid, which commenced on 11 June 2026, resulted in the arrest of foreign nationals at various locations in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and neighbouring communities.
Major Idereghi Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, confirmed the operation in a statement released on Sunday. The apprehension of the illegal immigrants was conducted following credible actionable intelligence indicating the presence of undocumented foreign nationals residing in the affected areas.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals had allegedly been residing in the state for approximately six months without valid immigration documentation,” Akari stated.
The arrested illegal immigrants comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 nationals of Côte d’Ivoire, four nationals of Togo and one national of Senegal. Among them are 36 males and 10 females.
Immigrants linked to online marketing scheme
During interrogation, the suspected illegal immigrants claimed to be merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various commodities. The connection to the online platform has raised questions about potential fraudulent activities and the extent of operations involving undocumented foreign nationals.
All 46 arrested immigrants have been transferred to the NIS Ogun State Command for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with Nigeria’s immigration laws. The transfer ensures proper processing and determination of their immigration status and any potential criminal involvement.
Multi-agency coordination strengthens enforcement
Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, Commander of 35 Artillery Brigade, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance in executing the operation. The successful coordination among multiple agencies demonstrates improved inter-agency cooperation in addressing irregular migration and national security concerns.
“The successful operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combating illegal migration, enhancing internal security, and safeguarding national interests,” Onu stated.
He urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant security agencies.
Illegal immigrants present security challenge
The apprehension of the illegal immigrants reflects ongoing concerns about irregular migration patterns and the presence of undocumented foreign nationals in border communities. Security analysts have warned that unmonitored populations can pose security risks and complicate efforts to maintain law and order.
