Troops of the Nigerian Army, working alongside other security agencies, have arrested 46 suspected illegal immigrants during a coordinated security operation in Ogun State.
The suspects, who were apprehended in different communities across the state, comprise 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 citizens of Côte d’Ivoire, four Togolese nationals and one Senegalese citizen.
Security authorities said the group consists of 36 men and 10 women.
Targeting locations in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and neighbouring communities, the arrests were carried out during an operation that began on June 11, 2026, following credible intelligence reports.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala, Abeokuta, Major Idereghi Samuel-Akari, disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated that the foreign nationals had been living in Ogun State for about six months without valid immigration documents.
According to him, the suspects told investigators during questioning that they were merchants and workers associated with QNet, an online marketing platform engaged in the sale of various products.
Major Samuel-Akari stated that the arrested individuals have been handed over to the Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary administrative procedures in line with existing laws.
Reacting to the operation, the Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Friday Oguche Onu, praised the troops and collaborating security agencies for their vigilance and professionalism.
He also urged residents of Ogun State to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious persons and activities within their communities.
The Army said the operation reflects the continued commitment of security agencies to tackling illegal migration, strengthening internal security and protecting Nigeria’s national interests.
