The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested 12 suspected illegal immigrants from Mali in the Akerebiata area of Ilorin following a tip-off from residents.
According to the command, the suspects were apprehended on Sunday, February 22, 2025, at about 10:00 p.m. They were identified as Umar Sangari (25), Bubu Bill (43), Modibo Keita (26), Mahmud Jaalo (22), Bakare Sumonu (20), Saiku Dubia (28), Panda Aboubacar (32), Malle Siaka (24), Seku Barry (34), Lamine Bakou (27), Baye Bolly (24), and Zuman Traore (26).
The individuals were reportedly occupying a two-bedroom apartment rented through a local agent under what authorities described as suspicious circumstances.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC 1 Ayoola Michael Shola, the corps said items recovered during the operation included nine mobile phones, two international passports, identification cards, a wristwatch, keys, and cash.
The State Commandant, Bala Bodinga, said investigations had commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the suspects’ presence in the state and to ascertain whether they had any criminal affiliations or unlawful intentions.
“Upon the conclusion of investigations, the suspects will be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary action in accordance with existing immigration laws,” he stated.
Bodinga added that the arrests were made amid growing security concerns and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to preventing criminal elements from using Kwara State as a safe haven.
“We remain fully committed to safeguarding lives, protecting property, and curbing all forms of criminality across the state,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies to ensure community safety.
Border Enforcement Efforts
In 2024, the Joint Border Patrol Team Sector 2, South West Zone, Lagos, arrested and handed over 156 illegal immigrants to the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The team also reported intercepting 2,633 bags of foreign parboiled rice and 4,019 jerrycans of petrol valued at N1.4 billion within the review period.
What You Should Know
The NSCDC in Kwara State arrested 12 suspected illegal immigrants from Mali in Ilorin following intelligence from residents.
Authorities recovered passports, phones, and other personal items during the operation. Investigations are ongoing, after which the suspects will be transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.
The arrests come amid heightened security concerns, with officials emphasizing vigilance and stronger border enforcement to prevent illegal entry and related criminal activities.
