Immigration arrests 125 foreigners in Lagos, to repatriate 82
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Lagos State arrested 125 foreign nationals for immigration-related offenses.
- Of the arrested individuals, 82 are slated for repatriation due to lacking valid travel documents or means of livelihood.
- The operation, conducted with the police, targeted Agege, Alimosho, Ebute Metta, and Badagry, emphasizing national security and adherence to immigration laws.
The Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has conducted a significant operation, apprehending 125 foreign nationals for alleged immigration-related offenses. This enforcement action, a collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, underscores the NIS's commitment to strengthening internal security and ensuring robust migration management within the state.
43 of the migrants were found with valid ECOWAS Travel Certificates and National Identity Biometric Cards, while 82 others had no valid travel documents, residence permits or identifiable means of livelihood.
The operation, which spanned several areas including Agege, Alimosho, Ebute Metta, and Badagry, resulted in the identification of individuals who were either undocumented or lacked the necessary permits and means of livelihood. Specifically, 100 nationals from the Republic of Niger and 25 from the Republic of Mali were detained. While some possessed valid ECOWAS Travel Certificates, a substantial number, 82 in total, were found to be in violation of immigration laws and are now designated for repatriation.
The affected individuals had been classified as prohibited immigrants and would be repatriated in line with the Immigration Act 2015.
From a Nigerian perspective, this crackdown is a necessary measure to maintain national security and uphold the integrity of immigration processes. The NIS has reiterated its stance that foreigners are welcome to conduct legitimate businesses provided they comply with the law. This operation serves as a clear message that non-compliance will not be tolerated. The NIS assures that the exercise was conducted professionally and in line with human rights standards, emphasizing that such continuous crackdowns are vital for reducing crime and ensuring that only those who meet legal requirements reside and operate within Nigeria.
It is a continuous exercise. The main aim is national security and to reduce crime and criminality to the barest minimum.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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