Ghana travellers warned to verify visas after 11 held in Nigeria over fake deals

Nigeria's Ogun State Police Command has rescued 11 Ghanaian nationals who were allegedly held against their will in Sagamu after falling victim to a transnational visa scam. Each of the victims reportedly paid GH¢40,000 after recruiting agents promised them Canadian and Spanish visas. Police said the operation on 20 October 2026 followed intelligence gathered the previous day.

Key facts

• 11 Ghanaian nationals rescued — seven males and four females — held at a hidden location in Sagamu, Nigeria
• Each victim reportedly paid GH¢40,000 before being taken to Nigeria
• Agents had promised them Canadian and Spanish visas, plus genuine international passports
• Rescue carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit after intelligence received on 19 October 2026
• All captives were released without casualties

What happened?

The victims travelled from Ghana after agents recruited them with promises of Canadian and Spanish visas, according to the Ogun State Police Command. Preliminary police investigations indicated that they were allegedly deceived by a fellow Ghanaian national who said he would facilitate their overseas travel.

Each person transferred money in the belief that they were securing genuine international passports and visas, and each reportedly paid GH¢40,000 before being brought to Nigeria and held against their will. The group was then confined in a hidden location in Sagamu.

Intelligence officers tracked the network's movements to a remote compound in Sagamu. Tactical teams surrounded the site and secured the immediate release of all captives without casualties.

Who carried out the rescue?

The command detailed the raid in an official release issued on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, by its Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi. Operatives began the rescue after precise information was gathered the day before.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its prompt response and professionalism. He said state authorities remain committed to dismantling organised networks that target vulnerable citizens across borders, adding: "No safe haven for criminals who exploit the hopes of others."

What should travellers take from this?

The command urged the public to verify overseas travel and visa-processing arrangements before making any payments, and to report suspicious activities. Public safety officials called on citizens across West Africa to exercise caution when dealing with private travel intermediaries, noting that unregulated agencies exploit high demand for overseas employment opportunities.

What happens next?

The victims are receiving care and support, while detectives intensify efforts to track down those connected with the alleged criminal network. Detectives are coordinating with Ghanaian security agencies to locate the primary suspect and identify local collaborators operating inside Nigeria.