Interpol Arrests Beninese Fugitive in Nigeria, Hands Him Over to Cotonou Authorities

ByEditor

Sep 28, 2025 #Beninese Fugitive in Nigeria, #Interpol Benin Republic, #Interpol Nigeria, #Sunday Kotin, #Transnational Crime

Segun Atanda/

The Nigeria Police Force National Central Bureau (NCB) of Interpol has arrested a notorious Beninese fugitive, Sunday Kotin, in Ogun State and handed him over to authorities in Benin Republic.

Kotin, wanted for cross-border armed banditry, smuggling of firearms and ammunition, cattle rustling, and drug trafficking, had fled into Nigeria in a bid to evade justice.

Interpol Benin had earlier alerted its Nigerian counterpart, leading to the coordinated operation.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of Interpol Nigeria apprehended him in Idi Iroko, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Police investigations revealed that seven members of his criminal syndicate are already standing trial in Benin Republic.

Following his arrest, Kotin was interrogated over his transnational crimes before being handed over to Interpol Cotonou officials.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global law enforcement collaboration.

He stressed that the country will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives or international criminals, regardless of their influence or network.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in safeguarding our sovereignty, strengthening international cooperation, and ensuring that fugitives find no refuge within our borders,” the IGP said.

The police assured Nigerians and the international community of their determination to sustain close partnerships with global law enforcement agencies in the pursuit of peace, security, and justice.