Interpol Benin arrests transnational crime fugitives

The Beninese Republican Police is stepping up efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks and prevent fugitives from using the country as a hiding place. In a coordinated crackdown, the BCN-INTERPOL Cotonou unit recently neutralized three high-profile fugitives sought by multiple nations during operations from April 13 to 19, 2026.

Targeted operations lead to arrests

On April 15, a Nigerian national, wanted by Lagos authorities for alleged involvement in multiple murder cases in 2023 and 2024, was arrested in Cotonou. The fugitive, whose escape had gained widespread media attention in Nigeria, was located hiding in a Cotonou hotel.

Also on the same day, another suspect—sought by U.S. authorities for a major fraud case—was detained at the Bernardin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou. The individual had fled the United States hastily and was attempting to enter Benin to evade prosecution.

Days later, on April 19, a French national accused of transnational organized crime offenses was apprehended in Cotonou. The suspect had reportedly established multiple fake identities to evade detection, but sustained covert monitoring by specialized police units eventually led to his arrest.

International cooperation in action

Following their arrests, the Nigerian fugitive was handed over to his home country under the ECOWAS Police Criminal Cooperation Agreement. Meanwhile, extradition processes for the remaining suspects are underway, reflecting Benin’s commitment to global justice and cross-border policing.

These targeted operations underscore Benin’s resolve to combat transnational crime, reinforce international police cooperation, and send a clear message: the country will not serve as a refuge for fugitives, regardless of their origins or charges.