Police rescue 38 foreign nationals, probe illegal immigration in Lagos

Lagos police have rescued 38 foreign nationals in the Epe area, intervening to prevent a mob attack and launching an investigation into alleged illegal immigration. The group included citizens from Chad, Burkina Faso, Benin, Mali, Togo, Cameroon, and Ghana.

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The foreign nationals comprise citizens of Chad, Burkina Faso, Benin, Mali, Togo, Cameroon, and Ghana.

Police Commissioner Fatai Tijani stated that the individuals were unable to offer clear explanations for their presence or activities in Nigeria. "The suspects are currently being profiled at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be handed to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action," Tijani said. He added that the police aim to determine if any criminal elements are involved before transferring them to immigration authorities.

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The individuals were unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their presence or activities in Nigeria.

Of the rescued individuals, 20 allegedly entered Nigeria illegally, while 18 possessed valid ECOWAS travel documents. Tijani emphasized the intervention was necessary for safety and to maintain public order. The matter has been escalated to relevant agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service and the embassies of the affected countries. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the circumstances of their presence and any potential immigration-related offenses. The police assured residents of their commitment to public order and stated that due process would be followed.

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The suspects are currently being profiled at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be handed to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.