Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced on Thursday that it has dismantled a major migrant smuggling ring allegedly headed by a Nigerian university professor. The operation, which facilitated illegal migration from Africa through Russia to the European Union, was reportedly led by a senior lecturer at the People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN). The professor’s name has not been disclosed, but the FSB revealed that five key members of the network, including nationals from Russia, Nigeria, and Ukraine, have been arrested.
The FSB claims the smuggling network generated around 60 million rubles ($650,000) since 2021. The group is accused of producing fake Russian residence permits and visas using fraudulent marriages and paternity documents. The FSB’s investigation has uncovered extensive operations, including raids on homes and outdoor locations. During one of these raids, a man confessed to entering a sham marriage with a Nigerian woman.
The FSB’s actions led to the rescue of three Russian nationals who had been held and exploited by the smugglers during one of the 25 raids conducted in the Vladimir region. These individuals have been transferred to the police for further assistance.
This crackdown follows Finland’s border closure last year, which accused Russia of orchestrating a “hybrid attack” by using African and Middle Eastern migrants. Moscow has denied these claims, maintaining that it does not engage in such activities.