The Niger State Police Command has successfully dismantled a 10-member human trafficking syndicate operating in Minna, rescuing 36 undocumented youths from various West African countries in the process.
According to SP Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, the syndicate had been operating under the guise of travel agents, systematically extorting their victims through deceptive practices.
The arrests took place on July 18, 2025, at approximately 12:30 pm following credible intelligence about suspicious activities at 123 Quarters in Minna. The police operation led to the apprehension of Sokou Doumbia, Thiarno Balbe, Hashimu Dauda Kolo, Usman Doumbia, Musa Konate, Lamine Watara, Acine Diouf, Adamu Zarbu, Alhassan Konde, and Dango Aminatu.
Investigations revealed that most of the suspects are nationals of neighboring West African countries and predominantly French-speaking. The only Nigerian among them, Hashimu Dauda Kolo, allegedly provided accommodation for the criminal network in Minna, facilitating their operations within Nigerian territory.
Rescue Operation Details
The police operation resulted in the rescue of 36 undocumented youths from Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. During interrogation, the victims claimed they had been brought to Nigeria under the pretense of participating in an online business opportunity.
"This syndicate has been exploiting vulnerable youths from across West Africa, luring them with false promises of legitimate work," a police source told BenriNews. "The victims were found in concerning conditions, having been transported across international borders without proper documentation."
SP Abiodun confirmed that all suspects and rescued victims have been transferred to Interpol for further investigation and appropriate action, highlighting the international dimension of the case.
Rising Concerns About Cross-Border Trafficking
This case underscores growing concerns about human trafficking networks operating across West African borders. Security experts note that trafficking syndicates often exploit porous borders and economic vulnerabilities to transport victims between countries.
The Niger State Police Command has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that may indicate human trafficking operations, particularly those involving cross-border movement of large groups of young people.
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