The Ondo State Police Command has intercepted a suspected child trafficking syndicate and rescued a 13-year-old girl along the Owena axis of the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday in Akure.
According to him, the suspects were apprehended on April 23 at about 6:44 p.m. at the Owena Checkpoint by personnel of the Nigerian Army.
He explained that the suspects were travelling in a Toyota Hummer 18-seater commercial bus from Lagos to Abuja when they were stopped and searched.
“The vehicle, driven by Akomolafe Tope, 59, alongside the conductor, Sunday Ismaila, 48, was thoroughly examined.
During the process, a 13-year-old girl was discovered in their custody under suspicious circumstances,” Jimoh said.
He added that preliminary questioning revealed that the suspects could not provide credible information about the girl’s identity, origin, or destination, raising strong suspicions of child trafficking.
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The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the minor was rescued and placed under protective care.
Jimoh further noted that the case has been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit for detailed investigation, adding that the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
He emphasized that the operation highlights effective collaboration between the police, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies in tackling crime.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and other vulnerable individuals, assuring that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, while transport operators were advised to properly document and verify passengers, especially minors, to prevent aiding criminal acts.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and combating human trafficking across the state.
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