The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five Congolese nationals from a hotel in Ibadan over suspected human trafficking and launched a search for a man accused of luring them to Nigeria with promises of better economic opportunities.
The victims, comprising three men and two women aged between 23 and 33, were rescued during an intelligence-led operation at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan.
The police said the operation was carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit on the directive of the state Commissioner of Police, following credible intelligence.
During preliminary questioning, the rescued persons reportedly identified a man known as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, as the person who allegedly persuaded them to come to Nigeria in search of better prospects.
The suspect was not found at the hotel during the operation, and the police said efforts were ongoing to locate and arrest him.
The five rescued nationals were identified as Bonsaly Mpika Donel, 24; Charles Siloe, 23; Eliane Ruth Makengo, 26; Makota Janie Darcel, 23; and Simba Babeki Elie, 33.
According to the police, the victims received medical attention and underwent medical examinations after their rescue.
The Commissioner of Police has directed that they be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Oyo State for further action in line with established procedures.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling human trafficking and protecting vulnerable people, urging members of the public to provide credible information that could lead to the arrest of those involved.
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