In a significant boost to the campaign against transnational organized crime, the Republican Police in Bénin is intensifying its efforts to dismantle criminal networks and track down individuals attempting to cross borders. The clear objective is to prevent Bénin from becoming a sanctuary for those wanted by international justice systems. Mirroring the dedication of other departments within the Judicial Police Directorate, BCN-INTERPOL Cotonou spearheaded a series of coordinated operations between April 13 and 19, 2026, successfully bringing an end to the flight of three fugitives actively sought by multiple nations.
On April 15, authorities in Cotonou apprehended a Nigerian national, wanted by his country for alleged involvement in several murder cases committed in Lagos during 2023 and 2024. The man, whose evasion had garnered considerable media attention from the Lagos State police, was located hiding in a hotel in Cotonou.
The same day witnessed another successful operation at Bernardin Gantin International Airport, leading to the arrest of a suspect sought by United States authorities in connection with a major fraud scheme. He had just entered Bénin, having hastily fled the United States to escape American justice.
A few days later, on April 19, 2026, a French national, also wanted by France for his alleged role in activities related to transnational organized crime, was taken into custody in Cotonou. This individual had established multiple false identities, which he used to evade police controls. However, weeks of discreet yet persistent surveillance by specialized units of the Republican Police ultimately led to his location and unmasking.
Following his arrest, the Nigerian fugitive was handed over to Nigerian authorities, in full compliance with the Criminal Police Cooperation Agreement among ECOWAS member states. Meanwhile, the extradition processes for the other two suspects are currently progressing through the appropriate legal channels.
Through these precisely targeted interventions and the subsequent transfer of the apprehended individuals, the Republican Police unequivocally reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating transnational organized crime, its consistent dedication to international police cooperation, and, critically, its resolute stance against offering any haven to international criminals, regardless of their origin or the offenses they are accused of.
