Nigeria Immigration Service Arrests 51 Irregular Migrants in Nasarawa

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has apprehended 51 irregular migrants from Mali in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

According to a statement by NIS spokesperson Akinsola Akinlabi, the arrested individuals comprise 11 females and 40 males, all between the ages of 16 and 19. Preliminary investigations suggest they are victims of trafficking in persons (TIP) and smuggling of migrants (SOM), having been found without valid travel documents or residence permits.

“The arrested individuals have been taken into the custody of the service for further profiling and investigation to determine the circumstances of their migration and any potential involvement of trafficking or smuggling networks or syndicates,” the statement read.

The NIS reaffirmed its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders against illegal migration while ensuring the protection of migrants’ rights following the country’s immigration laws.

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“The service continues to work closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders to combat smuggling of migrants and counter trafficking in persons effectively,” Akinlabi stated.