Army Arrests 24 Foreign Nationals in Lagos Epe Raid

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of 24 foreign nationals during a security operation in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The operation was conducted by troops of the 65 Battalion after receiving credible intelligence about undocumented foreigners within the battalion’s area of responsibility. The soldiers carried out the raid alongside members of the Vigilante Group at a fenced compound in Imokun, located around the Odo-Noforija/Poka area of Epe.

The Epe foreign nationals arrest involved 15 males and nine females from different West and Central African countries. Preliminary checks showed that the individuals included nationals from Cameroon (10), Togo (6), Côte d’Ivoire (3), Republic of Benin (3), Burkina Faso (1), and Guinea-Bissau (1).

The suspects were transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Lagos State Command on 16 July 2026 for further investigation, profiling, and administrative action.

According to the Army, officials are working to confirm the suspects’ immigration status, reasons for their stay, and whether they have links to any unlawful activities. Authorities are also seeking information from the owner of the premises where the individuals were found.

Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to address security threats and illegal activities within the division’s area.

The Lagos security operation reflects continued collaboration between security agencies and local groups to identify potential risks and maintain public safety.

Major General Adebayo Babalola, General Officer Commanding 81 Division, praised the troops for their professionalism and urged them to continue supporting efforts to protect communities and strengthen security across the area.

What measures can improve cooperation between security agencies and communities in tackling illegal activities?