The Nigeria Police Force have rescued two Colombian women who were allegedly lured to Nigeria and held captive by a human trafficking syndicate operating in Lagos.

The victims, identified as Maria Camila Rodas Ortiz and Yuliet Fernanda Rios Mesa, were rescued following an intelligence-driven operation coordinated by INTERPOL operatives in Lagos.

Police authorities said the operation was launched after receiving information from international law enforcement partners regarding the women’s situation.

According to investigators, the victims were allegedly deceived into travelling to Nigeria before being held against their will by members of the trafficking network.

Security operatives successfully located and rescued the women during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend all those connected to the crime.

Preliminary investigations indicated that some foreign nationals were allegedly involved in the trafficking ring and fled before security personnel arrived.

The rescued women have been placed under protective care and are receiving the necessary support from relevant authorities.

Law enforcement agencies are also working with diplomatic representatives and international partners to facilitate further investigations and ensure the victims’ welfare.

Police authorities reiterated their commitment to combating human trafficking and other forms of transnational crime, stressing that individuals involved in such activities will be tracked down and prosecuted.

The operation highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian and international security agencies to dismantle trafficking networks and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.