In a decisive move to curb transnational organized crime, Benin’s law enforcement agencies have escalated efforts to dismantle criminal networks and track down fugitives crossing international borders. The mission is unequivocal: prevent Benin from becoming a safe haven for individuals wanted by global justice systems. Coordinated operations conducted by the BCN-INTERPOL Cotonou from April 13 to 19, 2026, successfully ended the fugitive status of three high-profile criminals sought by multiple nations.

On April 15, Nigerian national Chidi Okonkwo, wanted by Lagos authorities for alleged involvement in multiple 2023 and 2024 assassination cases, was apprehended in Cotonou. The fugitive, whose flight had garnered significant media attention in Lagos State, was tracked down to a local hotel where he had been hiding.

The same day, another operation led to the arrest of an American suspect at the Bernardin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou. The individual was wanted in a major fraud case in the United States and had fled the country in haste to evade prosecution before entering Benin.

A few days later, on April 19, French national Jean-Paul Moreau, sought for alleged involvement in transnational organized crime activities, was detained in Cotonou. Investigators revealed that the suspect had used multiple false identities to evade law enforcement. However, weeks of meticulous surveillance by Benin’s specialized police units ultimately led to his location and capture.

Following their arrests, the Nigerian fugitive was handed over to his country’s authorities under the ECOWAS Police Criminal Cooperation Agreement. Meanwhile, legal proceedings for the extradition of the American and French suspects are currently underway.

These targeted interventions and subsequent transfers underscore Benin’s commitment to combating transnational organized crime, reinforcing international police cooperation, and ensuring that criminals—regardless of origin or alleged crimes—find no sanctuary within its borders.