The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five Congolese nationals suspected to be victims of human trafficking after they were allegedly lured into Nigeria with promises of better economic opportunities.
The victims were rescued at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan during an intelligence-led operation, according to a statement issued by the police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, on October 14, 2026.
The five were identified as Bonsaly Mpika Donel, 24; Charles Siloe, 23; Eliane Ruth Makengo, 26; Makota Janie Darcel, 23; and Simba Babeki Elie, 33.
During preliminary questioning, they reportedly told investigators that a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, had brought them into Nigeria with promises of better economic opportunities.
“The victims disclosed that a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, had lured them into Nigeria on the promise of greener pasture and better economic opportunities,” the report stated.
However, the suspect was not found at the hotel during the operation.
The police said efforts were ongoing to locate and apprehend him.
The command said the rescued nationals had received medical attention and would be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Oyo State.
It urged members of the public to provide information that could help investigators track down those connected with the suspected trafficking operation.
Oyo Police rescue five Congolese allegedly lured into Nigeria by trafficking suspect