Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced on Thursday that it has dismantled a migrant smuggling network allegedly led by a university instructor from Nigeria. According to the FSB, “The illegal activities of an interregional group specializing in the paid entry and transit of immigrants from the African continent through Russian territory to EU countries have been thwarted.”
The network’s leader, a senior lecturer at the People’s Friendship University of Russia’s engineering academy, was not named. However, five key members, including Russian, Nigerian, and Ukrainian nationals, were detained. The authorities are investigating possible accomplices.
Footage released by TASS showed FSB agents conducting raids, including searches of homes and outdoor areas. During one interrogation, a suspect admitted to entering into a fictitious marriage with a Nigerian woman.
The FSB rescued three Russian nationals who had been held captive and exploited by the smugglers during one of the 25 raids conducted in the Vladimir region. They have since been handed over to the police.
This development follows Finland’s decision to close its border with Russia last year, citing concerns that Moscow was using migrants from Africa and the Middle East in a “hybrid attack.” The Kremlin has denied these allegations.
The FSB’s operation underscores Russia’s efforts to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may follow.
