Nigerian soldiers in collaboration with other security agencies have apprehended 46 suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun State.

The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, Maj. Idereghi Akari, stated this in a statement on Sunday in Abeokuta.

Mr Akari noted that the operation was carried out with officers of the State Security Service (SSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

He explained that the suspects were arrested during a targeted security operation conducted on Thursday in Ijebu Imushin, Ijebu Ilese and neighbouring communities.

The army spokesperson noted that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects had allegedly resided in the state for about six months without valid immigration documents.

“During interrogation, the suspects claimed to be merchants and workers affiliated with QNet, an online marketing platform. The suspects comprised 18 nationals of Burkina Faso, 23 from Côte d’Ivoire, four from Togo and one from Senegal. They included 36 males and 10 females,” he said.

Mr Akari stated that the suspects had been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Ogun State Command, for further investigation and necessary administrative action.

The Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Friday Onu, commended the troops and collaborating agencies for their professionalism.

Mr Onu urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to security agencies.

He said the operation reflected the commitment of security agencies to combating illegal migration and strengthening internal security.

(NAN)