Bénin steps up fight against international crime with fugitive arrests

The Bénin Police Republic has intensified efforts to dismantle transnational crime networks and track fugitives crossing borders. A key goal is to prevent the country from becoming a haven for internationally wanted criminals. As part of this mission, the BCN-INTERPOL Cotonou recently executed a series of coordinated operations from April 13 to 19, 2026, resulting in the capture of three high-profile fugitives sought by multiple nations.

three fugitives intercepted in coordinated crackdown

On April 15, the Beninese authorities apprehended a Nigerian national in Cotonou, who had been on the run since being charged in Lagos for multiple homicide cases dating back to 2023 and 2024. The fugitive, whose evasion had been widely publicized by Lagos police, was found hiding in a hotel in Cotonou’s capital city.

The same day, another suspect was arrested at the Bernardin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou. This individual was wanted by U.S. authorities in connection with a major fraud case and had fled the United States to evade prosecution. Authorities intercepted him upon entry into Bénin.

Days later, on April 19, a French national was detained in Cotonou for alleged involvement in transnational organized crime. The suspect had established multiple fake identities to evade detection. However, extensive surveillance by specialized police units over several weeks led to his capture.

justice served through international cooperation

Following the arrests, the Nigerian fugitive was handed over to his home country under the ECOWAS Police Cooperation Agreement. Meanwhile, extradition proceedings for the other suspects are underway. These operations underscore Bénin’s commitment to combating transnational crime and reinforcing global law enforcement collaboration.

The Police Republic’s decisive actions send a clear message: Bénin will not serve as a safe haven for international criminals, regardless of their origin or the charges against them. By working closely with global partners, the country reaffirms its role as a responsible actor in the fight against cross-border crime.