Fake visa scam: 11 Ghanaians who paid GH¢40,000 each rescued from captivity in Nigeria

The Ogun State Police Command in Nigeria has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals allegedly held hostage in Sagamu after being lured to the country with false promises of Canadian and Spanish visas. 

The command disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, by its Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Oluseyi Babaseyi. 

According to the statement, the victims—comprising seven males and four females—were rescued by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit following actionable intelligence received on October 19, 2026. 

"Acting on actionable intelligence received on 19 October 2026, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit immediately mobilized to the identified hideout and safely rescued all 11 victims," the statement said. 

The police revealed that preliminary investigations indicate the victims were deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their overseas travel. 

"Each reportedly paid GH¢40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and held against their will," the statement added. 

The command stated that the victims are currently receiving appropriate care and support while detectives intensify efforts to track down and apprehend all individuals connected to the criminal network. 

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command's resolve to protect lives, combat transnational crime, and prevent Ogun State from becoming a haven for criminals who exploit unsuspecting people. 

"There is no safe haven for criminals who exploit the hopes of others," the commissioner said, assuring the public that operations will continue until those responsible are brought to justice. The command urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements thoroughly before making any financial commitments and to report suspicious activities promptly. It further reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led policing, effective inter-agency collaboration, and decisive action against criminal networks. 

"For the command, every credible lead matters, every life matters, and protecting the public remains paramount," the statement concluded.