Eleven Ghanaian nationals have been rescued by police in Nigeria after allegedly being lured to the country with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas, with each victim reportedly paying GH¢40,000 for the promised travel arrangements.
The victims, comprising seven men and four women, were allegedly held against their will in Sagamu, in Ogun State, after being deceived by a fellow Ghanaian who promised to facilitate their travel abroad, according to the Ogun State Police Command.
The rescue operation has renewed concerns about visa fraud, deceptive overseas travel arrangements and the exploitation of people seeking opportunities outside Ghana.
The Ogun State Police Command said its Anti-Kidnapping Unit rescued all 11 victims following intelligence received on October 19, 2026. The police disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, through the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi.
Each victim reportedly paid GH¢40,000
Preliminary investigations by the Nigerian police indicate that the victims were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who promised to facilitate their travel to Canada and Spain.
Each person reportedly paid GH¢40,000 before travelling to Nigeria, where they were allegedly held against their will.
The reported payment amounts to GH¢440,000 collectively for the 11 victims, based on the individual amounts disclosed by the police.
The case highlights the financial risks faced by prospective migrants who entrust large sums of money to individuals claiming to have the connections or expertise to secure overseas visas.
Police launch efforts to track down suspects
Following the rescue, the Ogun State Police Command said the victims were receiving appropriate care and support.
Detectives were also intensifying efforts to identify, track down and apprehend 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 swift response and professionalism.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives, combating transnational crime and ensuring that the state does not become a safe haven for people who exploit the hopes of unsuspecting victims.
The police assured the public that efforts would continue to bring those responsible to justice. The reports available at the time of publication did not confirm whether any suspects had been arrested.
Police warn public against unverified visa arrangements
The Ogun State Police Command has urged members of the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements before making payments.
It also encouraged people to report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities to help prevent similar incidents.
The incident serves as a warning to Ghanaians seeking opportunities abroad to exercise caution when dealing with individuals who promise visas, overseas employment or guaranteed travel arrangements in exchange for substantial fees.
Prospective travellers should independently verify the legitimacy of travel agents and immigration-related services, confirm visa requirements through official government channels and avoid relying solely on verbal promises or unofficial assurances.
For the 11 rescued Ghanaians, the immediate priority is their safety and recovery as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding their alleged deception and confinement.
The case also underscores the need for greater public awareness of migration-related fraud and stronger cooperation between Ghanaian and Nigerian authorities to protect vulnerable travellers from exploitation.
