**"Kwara Command Cracks Down on Illegal Migration: 12 Suspects Arrested"** In a bid to maintain the nation's security and uphold the law, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kwara State has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal migration. The command's operatives, acting on intelligence, swooped in on a group of suspected illegal immigrants in the early hours of Sunday, February 22, 2026, in the Akerebiata area of Ilorin. According to sources, the suspects hail from Mali, and their arrest is a major blow to the illicit trade of human smuggling that has plagued our borders for years. The suspects, aged between 20 and 43, were apprehended by NSCDC personnel, who recovered a range of items from them, including mobile phones, passports, identification cards, and a significant amount of cash. This operation is a testament to the NSCDC's commitment to safeguarding our borders and preventing the influx of undocumented immigrants into the country. The agency's efforts are particularly crucial in light of the recent economic downturn, which has created an environment conducive to human trafficking and smuggling. The arrested suspects will be handed over to the appropriate authorities, where they will face the full weight of the law. The Kwara State Command's Public Relations Officer, SP Ayoola Michael Shola, has praised the operatives for their bravery and professionalism in carrying out the operation. He emphasized that the NSCDC will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the security and integrity of our borders. The implications of this operation are far-reaching, and it serves as a warning to those who engage in illicit activities at our borders. The Nigerians and their international partners will no doubt welcome this development, as it demonstrates the government's resolve to tackle the issue of human smuggling head-on.