NIS Intercepts 17 Irregular Migrants, Arrests Two in Adamawa

The Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, Adamawa State Command has intercepted 17 irregular migrants during an operation in the state. The migrants were reportedly found at a private residence in Rumde Baru, within Yola South Local Government Area, as immigration authorities intensify efforts to monitor undocumented movement and accommodation arrangements.

According to the report, the group comprised 13 Cameroonian nationals and four Chadian nationals. The Cameroonian group included eight males and five females, while all four of the Chadian nationals were male. The NIS said the discovery raised concerns about the increasing use of private residences to accommodate undocumented migrants rather than more easily monitored facilities.

In a separate operation, immigration officers also arrested two men identified as 55-year-old Alhaji Jaye and 34-year-old Buba Bello. The two were arrested on September 6, 2026, and were reportedly found with ₦34 million in cash, which they allegedly told investigators was ransom money connected to a kidnapping case.

The NIS said preliminary investigations were being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the arrests. The alleged ransom discovery has drawn attention to the role that financial transactions can play in kidnapping investigations, while authorities continue efforts to establish the full circumstances of the case and determine whether further suspects or activities are connected to it.

The Adamawa command said the interception of the migrants also highlighted the need for closer monitoring of private accommodation facilities. Immigration authorities are expected to continue screening and investigating the individuals involved while ensuring that appropriate legal procedures are followed in dealing with both the irregular migration and alleged criminal activities.