The Nigeria Police Force says it has dismantled a transnational human trafficking syndicate and rescued 30 victims during an operation in Nasarawa State.

Police spokesperson, DCP Anthony Placid, said 13 suspects were arrested over allegations including human trafficking, criminal conspiracy, unlawful detention, obtaining money under false pretence, and staged kidnapping for ransom.

According to the police, the victims, identified as Malian nationals, were allegedly lured into Nigeria with promises of travel opportunities to Europe or high-paying jobs. Investigators said some victims were later forced to contact relatives and falsely claim they had been kidnapped in order to demand ransom payments.

The police said the operation followed a petition by the Association of Malian Citizens in Nigeria over reports of missing persons. Authorities added that investigations are ongoing, while efforts are being made in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Embassy of Mali to support and repatriate the rescued victims.