The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismantled a transnational human trafficking and fraud syndicate operating within the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring communities, rescuing 30 foreign nationals and arresting 13 suspects linked to the criminal network.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placide, investigations began after intelligence reports revealed the suspicious disappearance of several foreign nationals within Nigeria. The probe uncovered a well-organised syndicate allegedly involved in human trafficking, fraudulent exploitation, and extortion.
Police identified Abdul Ngaki as the principal suspect and alleged leader of the syndicate. Other suspects arrested include Fatimah Kulibali, Ahmad Kasango, Sidibe Musa, Muhammad Dembele, Saidu Traore, Ali Koulibaly, Abdul Ngeki, Ahmed Sirma, Laya Bando, Aisha Dembele, Abi Togo, and Awa Tesure.
Preliminary investigations showed that the syndicate targeted vulnerable young people from West African countries, especially Mali and Gabon, by promising them migration opportunities to Europe and lucrative jobs in Nigeria. Victims were reportedly made to pay transportation and processing fees before being moved into residential locations in Mararaba and Karu areas of Nasarawa State.
The police further disclosed that victims who failed to meet additional financial demands were allegedly forced into staged kidnapping schemes orchestrated by the syndicate. Under the arrangement, victims were compelled to contact relatives in their home countries while pretending to have been abducted, thereby pressuring family members to send ransom payments into accounts controlled by the suspects.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) carried out coordinated raids on May 7, 2026, at identified hideouts along Barrister Road in Rugan Dakachi, Nasarawa State. The operation led to the rescue of 30 victims, all confirmed to be Malian nationals and the arrest of the 13 suspects believed to be directly connected to the criminal enterprise.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, transnational organised crime and all forms of exploitation across the country. The Force assured members of the public that investigations are ongoing and that all individuals connected to the syndicate will be brought to justice.
