Oyo police rescue 5 Congolese nationals from human trafficking ring in Ibadan, hunt Benin Republic suspect

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued five Congolese nationals suspected to be victims of human trafficking during an intelligence-led operation at Bollarz Hotel in the Araromi area of Ibadan.

The spokesperson for the command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

The PPRO said the rescue operation followed credible intelligence, prompting the Commissioner of Police in the state to direct operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to take immediate action, resulting in the successful rescue of the five foreign nationals from the hotel.

The rescued persons are Bonsaly Mpika Donel, male, 24; Charles Siloe, male, 23; Eliane Ruth Makengo, female, 26; Makota Janie Darcel, female, 23; and Simba Babeki Elie, male, 33. All five are nationals of the Republic of Congo.

According to the PPRO, preliminary questioning revealed that a man identified as Smith, a national of the Republic of Benin, had lured the victims into Nigeria on the promise of greener pasture and better economic opportunities.

“However, the suspect was not found at the hotel during the operation, and efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend him,” the statement read 

 

“Following their rescue, the victims received medical attention and underwent medical examinations. 

 

“The Commissioner of Police has further directed that they be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Oyo State Command, for necessary action in accordance with established procedures.

 

“The Command remains committed to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons. 

 

“Members of the public are urged to provide credible and actionable information that could assist in identifying and apprehending those connected with the suspected trafficking operation.

 

“Oyo State Call Response Centre Toll-Free Line: 615

Oyo State Police Command Control Room: 08081768614, 07055495413.”