Troops of the Nigerian Army, working together with the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), have arrested 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun State.
The operation, which began on June 11, 2026, was carried out following credible intelligence reports. The suspects were arrested in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese, and surrounding communities during a coordinated security operation.
In a statement signed by Idereghi Samuel Akari, Major and Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the Army said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had allegedly been residing in the state for about six months without valid immigration documents.
According to the statement, the suspects claimed during interrogation that they were merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform involved in the sale of various commodities.
The arrested persons 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.
The statement added that the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Ogun State Command, for further investigation and appropriate administrative action in accordance with extant laws.
Speaking on the operation, the Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism and vigilance.
He also urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant security agencies.
The Army noted that 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.
