The Nigeria Police Force has rescued two Colombian women who were allegedly deceived into travelling to Nigeria and subsequently held against their will by members of a suspected human trafficking syndicate in Lagos.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday.
The police said the rescue operation followed intelligence received by the National Central Bureau (NCB)-INTERPOL, Lagos Annex, on August 26, 2026, regarding the whereabouts of the two women.
The victims were identified as Maria Camila Rodas Ortiz and Yuliet Fernanda Rios Mesa, both Colombian nationals.
According to the police, the women were allegedly lured to Nigeria under false pretences before being detained and having their travel documents confiscated.
The suspects were reportedly identified as Chinese nationals who fled the location before police operatives arrived.
Police Launch Covert Rescue Operation
Following receipt of the intelligence, police operatives attached to NCB-INTERPOL, Lagos Annex, reportedly commenced a discreet operation to locate the victims.
The operation eventually led officers to a suspected hideout in Lagos where the two women were being held.
Police said the victims were successfully rescued, while the suspected traffickers escaped after reportedly noticing the arrival of security operatives.
Authorities have since intensified efforts to identify, locate and arrest the fleeing suspects and other members of the alleged trafficking network.
Victims Receiving Support
The police said the two women are currently safe and receiving the necessary assistance following their rescue.
The Colombian Embassy in Accra is also reportedly working with INTERPOL to secure temporary accommodation for the victims and facilitate the issuance of emergency travel documents.
The arrangements are expected to enable the women to return safely to Bogotá, Colombia.
Police Vow to Fight Cross-Border Trafficking
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting Nigerians and foreign nationals living or travelling within the country.
He also stressed the importance of international cooperation in tackling human trafficking and other forms of organised cross-border crime.
The latest rescue highlights the dangers posed by international trafficking networks that allegedly target vulnerable individuals with false promises before exploiting or restricting their freedom.
The police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could assist security agencies in disrupting trafficking operations.
The investigation into the alleged trafficking network is ongoing, while efforts continue to apprehend the suspects who remain at large.
