Gkingmusik reports that more than 100 people were rescued during the operation, and officers turned down an alleged ₦50 million bribe said to have been offered to stop the investigation.

The development was made public on February 14, 2026, by the Zonal Public Relations Officer, DSP Jefferson Osupe Anisma. He explained that the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department carried out the raid after receiving reliable intelligence about the group’s activities in the state.

Police investigations showed that the syndicate targeted Nigerians, especially young people hoping to travel abroad for better opportunities. The suspects reportedly used deception and mental pressure to convince victims to sell their belongings and hand over their savings. They promised to secure visas, foreign citizenship, and well-paying jobs overseas.

After the intelligence report reached the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Auwal Musa Mohammad, he directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the Zonal Criminal Investigation Department, Udu Moses Ogechi, to move in swiftly.

Acting on that order, operatives stormed several locations around 6:00 a.m. on February 14. Authorities described the group as a well-organized network that took advantage of the growing desire among youths to relocate abroad. Victims were said to have been persuaded to quit their jobs, sell valuable items, and transfer large amounts of money to the suspects.

Instead of arranging travel as promised, the group allegedly moved victims to different places within Cross River State. There, they were kept under close watch, manipulated, and drained of their funds. Some were forced to bring in new victims, helping the syndicate to continue its operations.

To make the scam look real, the suspects reportedly rented comfortable apartments and took pictures in attractive settings. Victims were then instructed to post the photos online to give the false impression that they had successfully relocated abroad. In some cases, victims were forced to take on roles within the network to keep the scheme running.

During the operation, key suspects were arrested, and over 100 victims were freed from different hideouts. The rescued individuals have been handed over to the Cross River State Government for proper care, documentation, and support as they return to normal life.

Police also revealed that members of the syndicate attempted to bribe the investigators with ₦50 million. The offer was rejected, as officers continued with the case.

The Assistant Inspector-General praised the officers involved in the raid for their efforts and determination. He said the command remains committed to removing criminal groups that prey on citizens seeking better lives. He added that efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the network who are still at large.