Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau in Lagos have rescued two Colombian women who were allegedly lured to Nigeria and held captive by a human trafficking syndicate.

The victims, identified as Maria Camila Rodas Ortiz and Yuliet Fernanda Rios Mesa, were located after intelligence was received from INTERPOL in Bogotá on 26 August. Police said the women were brought to Nigeria under false pretences, held against their will and had their travel documents taken.

The suspects, described as Chinese nationals, fled when officers approached the Lagos hideout and remain at large.

Force spokesman CSP Ani Iniedu said the women are in safe custody and receiving support. The Colombian Embassy in Accra is working with the bureau on accommodation and emergency travel documents for their return to Bogotá.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu said the force would continue to work with international partners against cross-border crime. Police said efforts were ongoing to track the fleeing suspects and dismantle the network.