The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five Congolese nationals suspected to be victims of human trafficking during an intelligence-led operation at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan.
The operation followed credible intelligence received by the Commissioner of Police, who directed operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit to take immediate action, according to a statement issued by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
The rescued persons were identified as Bonsaly Mpika Donel, 24; Charles Siloe, 23; Eliane Ruth Makengo, 26; Makota Janie Darcel, 23; and Simba Babeki Elie, 33. All five are citizens of the Republic of Congo.
During preliminary questioning, the rescued individuals reportedly disclosed that a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, had lured them into Nigeria with promises of better economic opportunities.
However, the suspect was not found at the hotel during the police operation. The Command said efforts were ongoing to locate and arrest him.
The police added that the rescued individuals had received medical attention and undergone medical examinations following the operation. The Commissioner of Police has also directed that they be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Oyo State for further action in line with established procedures.
The Command reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons, urging members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in identifying and apprehending those connected with the suspected trafficking operation.
Residents can report relevant information through the Oyo State Call Response Centre’s toll-free line on 615 or the Police Command Control Room on 08081768614 and 07055495413.
