In a significant crackdown on transnational crime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully rescued 25 Ivorian nationals, including one identified as Ladji Yoa Pierre, from a kidnapping ring operating in Nigeria. The operation, which took place in Ogun State, resulted in the arrest of eight suspects linked to the abduction.
A statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said “the operation was initiated following a formal request from the National Central Bureau (NCB) Abidjan on April 23, 2025. The request was made by Mrs. Kaussi Amenan Marianman, who reported that her son, Ladji Yoa Pierre, had been lured to Nigeria under false pretenses by two individuals, Simon Oliver and Michael Odunga, who promised to assist him with travel documents to Belgium. Upon arrival in Nigeria, Pierre was held captive, with the abductors demanding a ransom of 2.5 million CFA francs (approximately 6.6 million Naira).
“In response to the NCB’s request, Commissioner of Police INTERPOL, Annex, Lagos, CP Bode Ojajuni, promptly assembled a team of trained investigators to locate and rescue the victims.
“On May 5, 2025, the police team conducted a raid at Osehi Hotel in Ado-Odo Ota, successfully rescuing two victims and apprehending two suspects. A subsequent operation in Ejegun Itele led to the rescue of 23 additional victims, including Pierre, and the arrest of six more suspects.
ACP Adejobi added that, “Following the successful rescue, Ladji Yoa Pierre was reunited with his mother, Mrs. Kaussi Amena, who travelled from Abidjan to meet him. The remaining 24 rescued individuals were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Services for further processing, while the eight suspects are currently in police custody facing investigation and potential prosecution.
He added that “In a statement dated May 6, 2025, the head of NCB Abidjan expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force and the INTERPOL Unit for their swift and effective operation, emphasising the importance of collaboration in combatting transnational crime.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised the operatives for their professionalism and commitment to ensuring that Nigeria remains inhospitable to criminal elements. “We are dedicated to working with our international partners to bring these criminals to justice,” he stated.
This operation marks the latest success for the Nigeria Police Force in its ongoing battle against transnational crime, highlighting its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, regardless of their nationality.
