Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), have apprehended 46 suspected illegal immigrants during a coordinated security operation in Ogun State.
According to an official signed statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, Major Idereghi Akari, the operation commenced on June 11, 2026, following actionable intelligence on the activities of foreign nationals residing illegally in parts of the state.
The statement disclosed that the suspects were arrested at various locations within Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese, and surrounding communities during a targeted security operation conducted by the joint security team.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the individuals had allegedly been residing in Ogun State for about six months without valid immigration documentation.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly identified themselves as 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. Security authorities further disclosed that the group consists of 36 males and 10 females.
The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ogun State Command, for further investigation and necessary administrative action in line with existing immigration laws and regulations.
Commenting on the operation, the Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu, commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to national security.
He also urged residents to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious individuals and activities to relevant security agencies to support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security.
The successful operation, according to the military authorities, underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combating illegal migration, strengthening internal security, and safeguarding Nigeria’s national interests.
