Police Intercept Suspected Child Trafficking Ring, Rescue 13-Year-Old in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command has intercepted a suspected child trafficking operation and rescued a 13-year-old girl along the Owena axis of the state.

The incident occurred on April 23, 2026, at about 6:44 p.m., when personnel of the Nigerian Army intercepted a Toyota Hummer 18-seater commercial bus travelling from Lagos to Abuja at the Owena checkpoint.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the vehicle, driven by Akomolafe Tope, 59, with Sunday Ismaila, 48, as conductor, was conveying goods when security operatives discovered the minor under suspicious circumstances.

ADVERTISEMENT

Jimoh said, “upon thorough scrutiny, a 13-year-old girl was found in their custody under suspicious circumstances,” adding that preliminary questioning raised concerns.

He noted that “the suspects could not provide credible or verifiable information regarding the identity, origin, or destination of the minor, thereby raising strong suspicion of child trafficking.”

The suspects were immediately arrested, while the victim was rescued and placed under protective care.

The police spokesperson disclosed that the case has been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit for further investigation, stressing that the suspects would be prosecuted upon conclusion of inquiries.

He said the operation highlights “the strong and effective inter-agency collaboration between the Ondo State Police Command, Nigeria Army and other relevant non-state actors,” noting that such synergy has improved intelligence sharing and rapid response to security threats.

The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, reaffirmed the command’s stance against crimes targeting vulnerable groups.

Jimoh stated that the CP “reiterates the Command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and other vulnerable groups,” assuring that all those found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

The command also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, while advising transport operators to properly document and verify passengers, especially minors, to avoid facilitating criminal acts.

Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious movement involving children to the nearest police station.

The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging continued collaboration with other security agencies to combat human trafficking and related crimes.