BREAKING: Libyan authorities have rescued 221 abducted migrants after raiding a human trafficking camp in the Kufra area of southeastern Libya.

The migrants were freed from an underground prison, where they said they had been held for over two years in sub-human conditions. More than 10 victims in critical condition were rushed to hospital for urgent treatment.

The operation was carried out jointly by the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) and the Sabil al-Salam Border Protection Battalion.

#BreakingNews #Libya #HumanTrafficking #Migrants #Africa #WorldNews

Ghana Arrests 53 Nigerians In Major Cybercrime Crackdown, Seizes Laptops, Phones, Guns

Ghanaian authorities have arrested 53 Nigerians in a major intelligence-led operation targeting suspected cybercrime hubs across the Greater Accra Region. The coordinated raids, carried out by national security agencies and police, uncovered organised cybercrime centres in areas including East Legon Hills, Afienya, Kwabenya, Weija and Tuba. Nine suspects were arrested as alleged coordinators, while 44 others were rescued as victims of trafficking and cybercrime exploitation. Security operatives seized 62 laptops, 52 mobile phones and two pump-action guns. The suspects have been handed over to Ghana Immigration as investigations continue.

#Cybercrime #GhanaNews #NigeriaGhana

Libya Horror Exposed: Authorities Raid Secret Underground Prison, Rescue Over 200 Migrants in Kufra

Libyan security forces have uncovered a secret underground prison in Kufra town, freeing more than 200 migrants held in brutal conditions. The hidden facility, nearly three metres underground, was allegedly operated by a human trafficker who is still at large. Some victims, including women and children from Somalia and Eritrea, were reportedly detained for up to two years. Authorities described the discovery as one of the worst crimes against humanity in the region, highlighting Libya’s ongoing migrant abuse crisis amid weak security and trafficking networks.

#LibyaCrisis
#HumanTrafficking
#MigrantAbuse

Nasarawa Police Rescue 17 Suspected Human Trafficking Victims, Launch Full Investigation

The Nasarawa State Police Command has rescued 17 suspected victims of human trafficking during a stop-and-search operation in Mararaba, Karu LGA. The victims—11 boys and 6 girls aged between 10 and 19—were intercepted in a vehicle allegedly transporting them from Plateau State to Kwara State for promised farming jobs. Police said efforts to reach their parents and the alleged recruiter failed. The victims are now in protective custody as investigations continue to dismantle the suspected trafficking network.

#HumanTrafficking #nta #NasarawaPolice #NigeriaNews

Wanted Drug Suspect ‘Kanmo-Kanmo’ Arrested 12 Years After Alleged Killing Of Three NDLEA Officers
A long-wanted drug suspect popularly known as “Kanmo-Kanmo” has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), 12 years after the alleged killing of three NDLEA officers.

According to the agency, a search of his hideout led to the recovery of 69 kilograms of skunk, a potent strain of cannabis. The suspect had reportedly been on the run for over a decade following the deadly incident involving NDLEA personnel.

The arrest is being described as a major breakthrough in the agency’s sustained fight against drug trafficking and attacks on law enforcement officers, bringing a sense of justice, healing, and closure to the families of the fallen officers and the nation at large. Investigations and prosecution processes are now underway.

#NDLEA #DrugWar #CrimeWatch #NigeriaNews

NDLEA Arrests Infamous Drug Kingpin “Kanmo-Kanmo” 12 Years After Murder of 3 Officers; Female Vendor Also Nabbed

Lek​an Jimoh, aka “Kanmo-Kanmo,” a notorious drug lord wanted for 12 years after orchestrating the killing of three NDLEA officers in 2014, has been arrested in Owode, Ogun State. NDLEA recovered 69kg of skunk during the operation. Kanmo-Kanmo had previously escaped a 2023 raid where 1,922kg of cannabis was seized and his warehouse forfeited to the government. The arrest ends a long manhunt, while a female online vendor was also apprehended for drug trafficking. Justice may finally catch up with the violent kingpin.

#KanmoKanmoArrest #NDLEA #DrugBust #OgunState #JusticeServed

Shehu Sani Urges Northern Nigerians to Protect Themselves Amid Rising Banditry and Insecurity

Former Senator Shehu Sani has urged citizens in Northern Nigeria to take security into their own hands amid persistent banditry and terrorism. Speaking during the launch of his books and stageplay in Abuja, Sani highlighted attacks by ISWAP, Boko Haram, and other armed groups, which have displaced millions, killed, and kidnapped civilians. He stressed community vigilance, accountability, and local intelligence as vital to dismantling criminal networks. His works also address irregular migration, human trafficking, and the need for African leaders to create local opportunities to curb youth exploitation abroad.

WATCH: Libyan Authorities Uncover Mass Grave Of 21 Migrants, Arrest Trafficking Suspect

Police Arrest Three Suspected Human Traffickers in Ondo State

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three suspected human traffickers in the state. The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, issued a strong warning to landlords, cautioning them against allowing their properties to be used for criminal activities.

According to him, any landlord found to be negligent or complicit by renting out premises used for crimes such as human trafficking will face serious legal consequences.

Question: Should landlords be held legally responsible for crimes committed inside their houses if they “claim” ignorance?

#OndoState #HumanTrafficking #NigeriaNews #CrimeWatch

Anambra Gov Cry Out: Dem Use 35 Small Girls for Ashawo Work for Brothel

Serious gbege don burst for Anambra as state government don strongly condemn alleged child trafficking and sexual exploitation after police rescue 35 underage girls from one brothel for Aguleri area of Anambra State. The girls, wey dem say traffick come from Ebonyi State, allegedly dey use for prostitution.

Police PRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, talk say Rapid Response Squad (RRS) storm the building after relatives report say three girls—Divine Mbam (14), Nwagu Favour (15), and Oke Blessing (18)—missing since September 2025. After investigation, police arrest one woman, Ifeoma Success Anthony (37), and rescue 33 girls, while property owner Mrs Ngozi Nnanyelugo (45) still dey run.

Preliminary findings show say the building dey operate as hub for child trafficking and prostitution. Reacting, Anambra Government, through Information Commissioner Law Mefor, describe the matter as disturbing and unacceptable, say dem no go tolerate any form of child abuse or exploitation.

Government don order full investigation, protection of the victims, sealing of any place involved, and prosecution of all culprits. Dem also urge residents to report suspicious activities through emergency line 5111, promising confidentiality, while reaffirming commitment to protect children and vulnerable persons.

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has reaffirmed its commitment to stronger collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against illicit drugs. A high-level US delegation led by Philip Esch, the US Drug Enforcement Administration’s Liaison to AFRICOM, met with NDLEA Chairman, Brig-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), praising the agency’s leadership and effectiveness. Esch described the partnership between NDLEA and the US-DEA as vital to the US government and expressed confidence in continued cooperation following the renewal of Marwa’s tenure. Another delegate, James Elseth, commended NDLEA’s international outlook, noting that its operations in Nigeria also enhance global security. He disclosed that two major support projects, alongside training programmes, were already underway. In response, Marwa thanked AFRICOM for its sustained assistance, attributing NDLEA’s successes to international partnerships and the support of the Tinubu administration. He called for further assistance, particularly in airport scanning equipment, digital forensic tools, detection devices, laboratory facilities, and sniffer dogs, stressing the growing link between drug trafficking and terrorism.

Nicolás Maduro Remains in U.S. Custody — What We Know So Far

As of January 11, 2026, multiple credible reports confirm that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is still being held by U.S. authorities, with no indication of release or transfer.

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, remain in detention in the United States, where they are facing serious federal charges, including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. The case marks one of the most dramatic developments in recent international politics.

Following his arrest, Maduro was arraigned in a federal court in New York, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. Current reports indicate that he is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, a high-security federal facility.

U.S. officials say the detention will continue pending further court proceedings, and so far, there has been no official confirmation of his release, extradition, or transfer to another jurisdiction.

As the legal process unfolds, the situation continues to draw intense global attention, raising major questions about sovereignty, international law, and the future of Venezuela’s leadership.

#Maduro #VenezuelaCrisis #GlobalPolitics #BreakingNews

Trump Declares Emergency to Lock Down Venezuela’s Oil Funds in U.S. Treasury

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order declaring a national emergency to block courts, creditors, and private parties from seizing Venezuelan oil revenue held in U.S. Treasury accounts.

The White House said the funds—classified as Foreign Government Deposit Funds—are now fully protected from attachment, judgment, liens, or any form of legal action. The order also bans any transfer or use of the money unless explicitly authorised by the U.S. government.

According to the administration, allowing the funds to be accessed would undermine U.S. foreign policy goals, weaken efforts to stabilise Venezuela, and threaten regional security. Officials linked the decision to concerns over illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and the influence of hostile foreign actors.

The White House warned that losing control of the oil revenues could strengthen groups such as Iran and Hezbollah while crippling initiatives aimed at restoring political and economic stability in Venezuela and across the Western Hemisphere.

The move forms part of Trump’s hardline “America First” approach to Venezuela. His administration has designated several criminal groups as terrorist organisations, imposed strict measures on oil shipments, and authorised aggressive action against narcotics networks operating in the region.

Earlier on the same day, Trump met with top oil executives, revealing plans for large-scale U.S. investment in Venezuela’s energy sector. He said the deals could involve “hundreds of billions of dollars,” boost oil production, and drive prices down globally.

The White House described the executive order as a strategic step to safeguard U.S. national security interests while maintaining control over Venezuela’s most critical financial asset.

NDLEA Declares Delta Man Jerry John Edhekρo ‘King Jerry’ Wanted Over Drug Trafficking – What You Need to Know

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially declared Jerry John Edhekρo, also known as Jerry or King Jerry, wanted for his alleged involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities. According to the agency, Edhekρo is a Nigerian national from Iyede Town, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, and is currently under investigation for several illicit drug offences.

The NDLEA released a statement accompanied by the suspect’s photograph, urging members of the public to provide credible information leading to his arrest. Citizens with knowledge of his whereabouts are encouraged to contact the nearest NDLEA command or use the agency’s toll-free helpline.

The agency emphasized that Edhekρo’s declaration as wanted followed intelligence reports and ongoing operations connecting him to multiple illegal drug transactions. In the statement, NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led operations targeting drug traffickers, warning that individuals involved in drug-related crimes would face legal action.

Officials described the suspect as a Black Nigerian male and reiterated the agency’s determination to track down and bring suspects involved in drug trafficking and related offences to justice. The NDLEA also urged residents to assist law enforcement in curbing drug crimes by reporting suspicious activity promptly.

This announcement underscores the NDLEA’s active campaign against drug trafficking in Nigeria, and the agency’s insistence on public cooperation reflects the seriousness of its ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in narcotics.

With drug-related crime posing significant threats to public safety and community well-being, the agency continues to deploy strategic operations across the country, reinforcing its mandate to protect citizens from the dangers of illicit drugs.

Libya Arrests Nigerian Woman and Ghanaian Husband Over Alleged Torture and Starvation of Orphaned Child to Death

Libyan authorities have arrested a Nigerian woman and her Ghanaian husband over allegations that they tortured and starved an orphaned child to death in Tripoli. According to reports, the child’s biological mother died under questionable circumstances approximately two years ago, leaving the boy in the care of the couple.

Police sources revealed that the suspects subjected the child to prolonged abuse, neglect, and starvation, ultimately resulting in his death. The arrest, carried out on January 7, 2025, follows ongoing investigations into the incident, with Libyan authorities yet to disclose full details of the charges or the suspects’ identities.

The case has sparked outrage on social media, with witnesses identifying the couple and condemning their alleged actions. Activists, including prominent anti-human trafficking campaigner Yakubu Oyiza Hope, expressed shock and dismay at the cruelty inflicted on the orphan, while welcoming the swift intervention of Libyan authorities.

The incident underscores the vulnerability of orphaned children and the need for strict oversight of guardianship, particularly in foreign countries. Investigations are ongoing, and the Libyan government has pledged to ensure that justice is served.

The tragic event has drawn international attention and calls for heightened child protection measures in Libya, highlighting the urgent need to combat abuse and neglect against minors.

Venezuela Confirms 100 Dead After U.S. Operation Captures President Maduro

Venezuelan authorities have confirmed that at least 100 people died during the U.S. military operation that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday, January 4, 2026. The announcement came from Venezuela’s Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, marking the first official death toll since the controversial raid.

Cabello revealed that a significant portion of Maduro’s security team was killed “in cold blood,” while Cuban military and intelligence personnel operating in Venezuela were also reportedly killed. Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, sustained a head injury, and Maduro himself suffered a leg injury during the attack.

The operation occurred amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, following years of sanctions, political disputes, and accusations of governance and security failures by Maduro’s administration. The U.S. justified the raid by citing Maduro’s alleged involvement in drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, claiming his government shipped tons of cocaine into the United States.

Following the operation, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, asserting that American investment originally built the infrastructure now under Maduro’s administration. Maduro, speaking publicly for the first time after being taken to the U.S., described himself as “kidnapped” and denied all allegations.

Venezuelan authorities have declared a week of mourning for the military personnel killed, describing them as “courageous” for their role in defending the country. The operation has further strained international relations and intensified scrutiny on U.S. foreign interventions in Latin America.

How Did Two Young Men Try to Smuggle Marijuana Into a Kano Court? Who Were They Working For—and What Does Their Arrest Reveal About Nigeria’s Prison Drug Crisis?

How were two young men able to attempt a drug drop inside a court facility in Kano—and what does their arrest expose about the growing challenge of narcotics trafficking into Nigeria’s custodial system?

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Kano State Command, has arrested two men for allegedly attempting to smuggle marijuana and other illicit substances to inmates during court proceedings at the Nomansland Court Complex. The suspects—identified as 25-year-old Usman Khalid and 24-year-old Bello Musa Ahmed, both from the Tsamiya (Brigade) area of Kano—were apprehended by officers attached to the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Goron Dutse.

According to the NCoS, the men were caught while allegedly trying to throw wraps of Indian hemp and other prohibited drugs to inmates as they were being moved in and out of the court. The arrest was confirmed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Musbahu Lawan-Kofarnasarawa, who said the suspects were intercepted before the items could reach any prisoner.

But why would suspects risk such a public and tightly controlled environment to deliver drugs? And who exactly were they trying to supply? While authorities have not yet disclosed whether the suspects were linked to a wider trafficking network, the incident has raised fresh concerns about how criminal elements attempt to exploit court appearances and inmate movements to bypass prison security.

Reacting to the incident, the Controller of Corrections in Kano State, Ado Inuwa, described the act as a serious security breach and a criminal offence under Nigerian law. He warned members of the public to desist from any interaction with inmates during court transfers, stressing that such conduct threatens both public safety and the integrity of the justice system.

Inuwa reaffirmed the NCoS’s commitment to rehabilitation and reformation, noting that drug trafficking into custodial facilities undermines discipline, fuels criminal behaviour behind bars, and sabotages correctional objectives. He directed that the suspects and the seized drugs be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution.

What does this case reveal about the broader problem of drugs in Nigeria’s prisons? The Kano Command reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward drug-related offences, vowing to maintain maximum security across all custodial centres and judicial premises in the state. The Service also called on residents to report suspicious activities, emphasising that community vigilance remains vital in the fight against narcotics and organised crime.

As investigations continue, key questions remain unanswered: Were the suspects acting alone or as part of a larger network? Which inmates were the intended recipients? And how many similar attempts go undetected across the country? The outcome of this case may determine not only the fate of the two accused men but also how aggressively authorities tighten security around Nigeria’s courts and correctional facilities in the ongoing war against drugs.

Who Was Trafficking These 33 Underage Girls in Anambra? How Police Tracked a Suspected Syndicate, Arrested One Woman, and Launched a Manhunt for the Alleged Ringleader

Who was behind the trafficking of 33 underage girls in Anambra State—and how did police uncover the operation? What role did a single distress call play in exposing what authorities describe as a suspected hub for child trafficking and prostitution? And who is the woman now on the run as investigations widen?

The Anambra State Police Command has announced the rescue of 33 underage girls and the arrest of a 37-year-old woman in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, in what officers say is a major breakthrough against a suspected child-trafficking network. The operation, carried out by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, followed a distress report received through the Command’s Control Room.

According to Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the report came from relatives of three missing girls—14-year-old Divine Mbam, 15-year-old Nwagu Favour, and 18-year-old Oke Blessing—who were allegedly abducted in Ebonyi State in September 2025 and taken to an unknown location. When information later surfaced that the girls had been sighted at a building along Emma Pigin Road in Aguleri, police moved swiftly.

What did officers find at the location? Upon storming the premises, they arrested a woman identified as Ifeoma Success Anthony and rescued a total of 33 underage girls. Preliminary investigations, the police said, indicate that the property was allegedly being used as a hub for child trafficking and prostitution—raising urgent questions about how long the operation had been running and how many victims may have passed through it.

Who is believed to be behind the operation? Police revealed that the building is allegedly owned by a 45-year-old woman, Mrs. Ngozi Nnanyelugo, who is currently at large. Authorities say efforts are underway to locate and arrest her, while investigators work to determine the full scope of the alleged crimes and identify any accomplices.

What happens to the rescued girls? The police confirmed that all victims have been placed in protective custody, where they will receive care and undergo welfare interventions pending the outcome of investigations. Officials also assured the public of the Command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and dismantling networks that profit from their exploitation.

As the manhunt continues, critical questions remain: how extensive is this trafficking network, who else may be involved, and will the arrests lead to a broader crackdown on child exploitation across the region? For now, the rescue of 33 girls marks a significant step—but one that underscores the urgent need for vigilance, community reporting, and sustained law-enforcement action against child trafficking in Nigeria.

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked to Venezuela and Russia Over Sanctions Violation
January 7, 2026 – International

The United States has confirmed the seizure of an oil tanker accused of violating U.S. sanctions, marking a major enforcement action against vessels attempting to bypass American restrictions. The tanker, originally identified as M/V Bella 1, had been renamed Marinera and was operating under a Russian flag while sailing in the North Atlantic. Reports indicate that the vessel previously flew a Guyana flag before its re-registration under Russia.

The U.S. European Command stated that the seizure was executed in coordination with multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Tracking operations were supported by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Munro. According to officials, the operation was carried out pursuant to a U.S. federal court warrant and reflects a “whole-of-government” approach to protecting U.S. interests and enforcing sanctions.

“The seizure supports the President’s proclamation targeting sanctioned vessels that threaten security and stability in the Western Hemisphere,” the U.S. European Command noted. Officials emphasized that the action was carefully planned to avoid environmental damage and focused on recovering the tanker rather than sinking it.

This operation follows recent diplomatic talks between U.S. and Venezuelan officials regarding potential exports of Venezuelan crude to American refineries along the Gulf Coast. U.S. refineries, which have historically processed Venezuela’s heavy crude, are reportedly capable of handling future imports once sanctions allow. Sources noted that the discussions come after years of restrictions that curtailed Venezuelan oil exports to the United States.

The seizure also comes in the wake of a controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela in early January 2026, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. justified the operation by citing federal indictments accusing Maduro’s government of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, alleging that the regime helped ship large quantities of cocaine into the United States. Following the operation, former President Donald Trump openly declared that the U.S. intended to take control of Venezuela’s oil industry, which he claimed was built with American investment and seized by Maduro.

In his first public comments after being taken to the U.S., Maduro described himself as “kidnapped” and insisted on his innocence. The tanker seizure is seen as part of ongoing U.S. efforts to reassert influence over sanctioned energy exports and prevent regimes like Venezuela and Russia from profiting from illicit oil trade.

Experts note that the operation highlights the strategic importance of maritime enforcement in the global energy market and underscores the U.S.’s commitment to sanctions enforcement. The tanker, part of what officials have described as a “shadow fleet” circumventing international regulations, was carefully monitored for weeks before the operation, demonstrating the complexity of tracking and intercepting high-value maritime targets.

The U.S. emphasized that similar operations may continue against vessels suspected of violating sanctions, particularly those tied to sanctioned nations or illicit networks. The seizure reinforces the administration’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement and targeted enforcement to secure energy markets and uphold international sanctions.

Venezuela and U.S. Hold Talks to Resume Venezuelan Crude Exports to Gulf Coast Refineries Amid Sanctions Reversal and Maduro Capture

Venezuela and United States officials are reportedly in discussions to resume the export of Venezuelan crude to U.S. refineries, particularly along the Gulf Coast, which have historically processed the country’s heavy crude. The talks come after years of sanctions restricted Venezuelan oil access to the U.S. market, imposed during the Trump administration.
The renewed engagement follows a controversial U.S. military operation in early January 2026 that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The U.S. cited drug trafficking and narco-terrorism allegations against Maduro, while he described his capture as a “kidnapping” and denied wrongdoing.
The potential resumption of exports is seen as part of broader U.S. efforts to reassert control over Venezuela’s oil industry. No formal agreement has been reached yet, and discussions are ongoing. Historically, U.S. sanctions and geopolitical tensions sharply curtailed Venezuela’s oil production and revenues, forcing the country to redirect shipments elsewhere.