Army arrests 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun, hands them over to immigration authorities.

Troops of the Nigerian Army, together with the Directorate of Security Services (DSS), the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Immigration Service, have detained 46 people suspected of being illegal immigrants in Ogun State.

According to DAILY POST, the suspects—36 men and 10 women—were seized at various sites in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese, and nearby communities after actionable intelligence was received.

The group includes 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 from Côte d’Ivoire, 4 from Togo, and 1 from Senegal.

In a statement released on Sunday, Major Idereghi Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, said the arrests were made on Thursday.

Akari added that preliminary investigations indicated the individuals had been living in the state for roughly six months without valid immigration documents.

During questioning, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers linked to QNet, an online marketing platform that sells a variety of goods.

“The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with existing laws,” the statement read.

Brigadier General Friday Onu, Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, praised the troops and the collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance during the operation.

He urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the relevant security agencies.

Onu added that the successful operation demonstrates the Nigerian Army’s and other security agencies’ commitment to combating illegal migration, strengthening internal security, and protecting national interests.