Nigerian Army Detains 46 Individuals Accused of Illegally Entering Ogun State

The Nigerian Army announced that, together with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), it has detained 46 people suspected of illegal immigration in Ogun State.

Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, stated that the operation began on 11 June 2026 and led to the apprehension of the suspects at various locations in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese, and surrounding communities during a focused security initiative.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the individuals had been residing in the state for approximately six months without valid immigration documents.

“During questioning, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers associated with QNet, an online marketing platform that sells a variety of commodities,” the statement added.

The arrested group 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 action in accordance with existing laws.

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 urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the relevant security authorities.

The army highlighted that this successful operation demonstrates its commitment, along with that of other security agencies, to tackling illegal migration, enhancing internal security, and safeguarding national interests.