The Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, says it has dismantled a transnational organised crime syndicate linked to the QNET/IGNITE network, arresting its alleged leader and 11 other suspects while rescuing two victims in coordinated operations across Lagos State.
The operation, according to the Service, followed actionable intelligence on trafficking syndicates operating in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI AS Akinlabi, the NIS identified the alleged leader as Ouattra Adama, a Burkinabe national.
Akinlabi said Adama was arrested alongside 11 suspected facilitators comprising eight Liberians and three Cameroonians. The Service also rescued two Liberian nationals believed to be victims of the syndicate.
“Accordingly, the twelve (12) suspects and the two (2) victims have been transferred to the Service Headquarters for further investigation and necessary legal action,” Akinlabi said.
The NIS described QNET/IGNITE as a transnational organised criminal syndicate involved in fraudulent employment and business schemes linked to irregular migration.
It urged Nigerians and prospective migrants to verify offers of employment, education, and business opportunities through appropriate official channels before making financial commitments or travelling abroad.
The Service said investigations are continuing to identify other members and possible victims nationwide.
