Kwara: NSCDC arrests 12 suspected illegal immigrants from Mali

2026-02-28 - 16:06

By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has arrested twelve suspected illegal immigrants from Mali in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. The illegal immigrants were arrested in the Akerebiata area of Ilorin, following credible intelligence from vigilant residents. The arrest was disclosed in a press statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC 1 Ayoola Michael Shola, and made available to journalists in Ilorin. According to the statement, the suspects were allegedly occupying a two-bedroom apartment in Akerebiata, reportedly rented through a local agent under suspicious circumstances. Security operatives recovered nine mobile phones, two international passports, identification cards, cash, a wristwatch, keys and other personal items during the operation. Kwara State NSCDC Commandant Bala Bodinga, in the statement, confirmed that a comprehensive investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding their presence in the state and to establish whether they have any criminal affiliations or unlawful intentions. He further stated that upon conclusion of investigations, the suspects will be transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action in line with existing immigration laws. The Commandant emphasised that the operation comes amid heightened security concerns across the state, stressing that the Command will not allow Kwara to become a safe haven for criminal elements. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to safeguard their communities.