A major security operation by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Lagos State has uncovered what security sources describe as a suspected cross-border criminal network, leading to the arrest of more than 30 foreign nationals, including two former Togolese soldiers reportedly wanted in their home country.
The operation, carried out by the NSCDC Badagry Division following weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance, targeted multiple locations across the border community believed to have served as operational bases for the suspected network.
Security sources told Star News Africa that those arrested are nationals of Togo, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Gabon. Investigators believe the syndicate may have been using false promises of employment and business opportunities to lure young people into Nigeria before allegedly subjecting some victims to confinement, intimidation and extortion.
According to sources, investigators are working to determine the full scope of the operation and whether it has links to wider transnational criminal activities across the West African sub-region.
During the raid, operatives reportedly recovered several identification documents and other materials now undergoing forensic and biometric examination to establish the true identities of the suspects and any affiliations with organised criminal groups.
Particular attention is being focused on two Togolese nationals whose identities are said to correspond with names contained in military desertion and wanted notices allegedly issued by authorities in Togo.
Although the claims have not been officially confirmed, security sources disclosed that investigators are examining whether the suspects have ties to political or military-related activities beyond Nigeria's borders.
A Facebook post by the Executive Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, indicated that the operation was coordinated by officers of the NSCDC Badagry Division under the leadership of Chief Superintendent of Corps (CSC) Ekunola Gbenga Abraham.
The development is expected to strengthen regional security cooperation as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks operating within the sub-region.
Sources further disclosed that the arrested foreign nationals are likely to be handed over to the appropriate immigration authorities after profiling and the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
As of press time, the Lagos State Command of the NSCDC had yet to issue an official statement confirming the operation or the allegations against the suspects. Other security agencies contacted for comments were also yet to respond.
However, security sources insist investigations remain active, with further arrests and disclosures expected as authorities continue to unravel what could be a significant transnational criminal operation.