Ogun Police Rescue 11 Ghanaians Allegedly Held Hostage After Canada, Spain Visa Scam
By Chibuzo Obidike | IchieTimes
Eleven Ghanaian nationals have been rescued by the Ogun State Police Command after they were allegedly lured to Nigeria with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas and held against their will in Sagamu.
The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were rescued by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit following actionable intelligence received on October 19, 2026.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed the development in a statement on Tuesday, saying officers immediately mobilised to the identified hideout and safely rescued all 11 victims.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their overseas travel.
According to the police, each victim reportedly paid GH₵40,000 before being brought to Nigeria, where they were allegedly held against their will.
The command said the rescued individuals were receiving appropriate care and support, while detectives intensified efforts to identify, track down and arrest others connected with the suspected criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism, reaffirming the command’s determination to combat transnational crime and protect residents and visitors.
He warned against exploiting people’s hopes of travelling abroad for criminal purposes, assuring the public that efforts would continue to bring those responsible to justice.
The police also urged Nigerians and foreign nationals to verify visa and overseas employment arrangements through official channels before making payments, and to report suspicious offers to the relevant authorities.
The incident highlights the risks associated with unverified overseas travel offers, particularly schemes that demand large upfront payments while promising access to foreign visas.
