The Lagos State Police Command has rescued 38 foreign nationals from attempted mob attack in Epe area while launching investigation into alleged illegal immigration activities.
The foreign nationals were reportedly rescued on the 17th of June after officers intervened to prevent a breakdown of law and order involving the suspected illegal migrants.
Fatai Tijani, the Lagos Commissioner of Police, disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
According to Tijani, the foreign nationals comprised citizens of Chad, Burkina Faso, Benin, Mali, Togo, Cameroon, and Ghana.
The police chief said they are currently being profiled and billed to be transferred to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) after failing to explain reason behind their presence in the state.
“The individuals were unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their presence or activities in Nigeria.
“Suspects are currently being profiled at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be handed to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.
“We want to properly profile them and determine whether there is any criminal element to their activities before transferring them to immigration authorities for further processing.” Tijani said.
Of those rescued, 20 allegedly entered Nigeria illegally, while 18 were found in possession of valid ECOWAS travel documents.
Tijani said the intervention was necessary to prevent mob action and ensure the safety of all persons involved.
He said matter had been escalated to relevant agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service and embassies of affected countries, for proper profiling and action.
According to him, investigations are ongoing to determine circumstances surrounding their presence in the area and whether any immigration-related offences have been committed.
The police boss assured residents that the command remains committed to maintaining public order.
He said due process would be followed in handling cases involving foreign nationals and further updates will be provided as investigations progress.