Ogun Police Rescue 11 Ghanaians Allegedly Held Hostage Over Canada, Spain Visa Scam

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

The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were freed during an intelligence-led operation conducted by operatives of the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the police spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed intelligence received on October 19, 2026, about a location where the victims were allegedly being held against their will.

Babaseyi said preliminary investigations indicated that the victims had been deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to arrange their travel abroad. The alleged scheme reportedly involved offers to facilitate visas for Canada and Spain.

Each of the 11 victims was said to have paid GH₵40,000 before travelling to Nigeria, where they were allegedly detained. The police statement did not specify whether the payments were made directly to the suspected recruiter or through other intermediaries.

The victims are currently receiving care and support, while detectives are working to identify and apprehend other individuals suspected of involvement in the alleged criminal network.

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its response to the intelligence report. He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting residents and tackling crimes that exploit people seeking opportunities to travel abroad.

Ojajuni warned that Ogun State would not be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals who take advantage of unsuspecting people. He assured the public that the police would continue efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

The command urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa arrangements before making payments and to report suspicious activities to the authorities. The case highlights the risks associated with unverified migration offers, particularly schemes that promise access to foreign countries in exchange for substantial upfront payments.