The Nigerian Immigration service, Lagos command, in collaboration with the Nigerian police, have arrested 125 non Nigerian Nationals migrants during an intensified joint operations as part of efforts to curb security threats linked to irregular migration.
The Assistant Comptroller General, ACG, Zone A Mohammed Adamu, made this known during a press Conference in Lagos.
ACG Adamu said the crackdown led to the arrest of 125 foreign Nationals during an intelligence-driven operation conducted on March 30 across Agege, Alimosho, Ebute Metta and Badagry, as the exercise was aimed at strengthening internal security and reducing criminal activities.
The ACG noted that the aim is for national security and to reduce crime and criminality to the barest minimum, as 82 of the migrants arrested lacked valid travel documents, residence permits and any legitimate means of livelihood, making them liable for repatriation under the Immigration Act.
The Zone A immigration boss, stressed that the exercise was intelligence-driven and a joint operation between the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigeria Police, targeted at identifying undocumented migrants and addressing irregular migration activities within Lagos state as the exercise was conducted professionally and in full compliance with human rights standards and established legal frame works.
On his part, the Comptroller of immigration Lagos Command, Chris Onajinrin, described the exercise as a continuation of ongoing enforcement strategies safeguarding the country.
Comptroller Onajinrin noted that the migrants would be repatriated within 48 hours after due immigration procedures as their respective consulates have been notified.
The service also assured its commitment under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Immigration Kemi Nanna Nandap and the ministerial supervision of the Honourable minister of interior , Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, in maintaining law and order as well as promoting National security .
Reporting By Mary Fatile