From Victor Osula, Abuja
The International Criminal Police Organisation has issued Red Notices for 14 Nigerians wanted for a range of serious offences, including human and drug trafficking, robbery, cheating, and forgery.
In a statement published on its website, INTERPOL disclosed that the notices were issued at the request of international tribunals and member countries where the alleged crimes occurred.
The organisation clarified that a Red Notice is a formal request to law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest individuals pending extradition or other legal proceedings. It is not an international arrest warrant.
The suspects identified include Felix Omoregie, Jessica Edosomwan, Uche Egbue, Jude Uzoma, Chinedu Ezeunara, Benedict Okoro, Ikechukwu Obidiozor, Alachi Stanley, Bouhari Salif, Timloh Nkem, Austine Costa, Okromi Festus, Akachi Vitus, and Mary Eze.
Felix Omoregie is wanted by Belgian authorities for allegedly heading a criminal organisation involved in the sexual exploitation of minors.
The charges include human trafficking for prostitution and leading a criminal organisation.
Jessica Edosomwan faces allegations from French authorities for orchestrating a trafficking operation that exploited multiple victims while concealing the proceeds of crime.
Uche Egbue, Jude Uzoma, and Chinedu Ezeunara are sought by authorities in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, respectively, for their roles in drug trafficking networks.
In Nicaragua, Benedict Okoro is wanted for alleged involvement in organised crime.
In Angola, Ikechukwu Obidiozor, Alachi Stanley, and Akachi Vitus are being pursued for offences including kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal possession of firearms.
Mary Eze is wanted by Denmark for alleged human trafficking offences, while Bouhari Salif faces charges in China for drug smuggling.
Canadian authorities are seeking Timloh Nkem for alleged sexual assault and failure to comply with court conditions.
In India, Austine Costa and Okromi Festus face charges of criminal conspiracy, forgery, and cheating.
INTERPOL has urged members of the public with any information about the whereabouts of the suspects to contact their local police authorities.
This development underscores the global commitment to combating transnational crime, with INTERPOL playing a pivotal role in tracking and apprehending fugitives across borders.
