Nigerian Police Hands Over Fugitive to Benin Republic Authorities

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully arrested and transferred a wanted fugitive to the Benin Republic following a cross-border operation coordinated with Interpol, officials confirmed on Sunday, 28 September 2025.

The fugitive, identified as Sunday Kotin, a Beninese national, faced multiple charges in his home country, including armed banditry, firearms smuggling, cattle rustling, and drug trafficking. Kotin was apprehended in Idi Iroko, a border town in Ogun State, during an intelligence-led operation conducted by the NPF’s Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB). He was later handed over to the Interpol bureau in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

Police disclosed that Kotin fled into Nigeria to evade prosecution, while seven members of his criminal network are already facing trial in Benin. Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun commended the operatives for their diligence and stressed that Nigeria would not serve as a sanctuary for fugitives.

“Our partnership with international counterparts remains strong, and our commitment to justice is unwavering,” the IGP said.

Nigeria and Benin share a long and porous border, often exploited by smugglers and armed criminal groups. Authorities in both countries have been strengthening cooperation through Interpol and regional security bodies to tackle cross-border crime, which has been a persistent security challenge in West Africa.

The NPF confirmed that this action is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to enhance international security collaboration and uphold the rule of law. Security experts say such operations reinforce trust between neighbouring countries and deter criminals from exploiting cross-border loopholes.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org