By Faith Eze
The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against human trafficking and child exploitation by arresting three women suspected to be members of an underground child-stealing syndicate. The successful operation, carried out by vigilant detectives attached to the Ibafo Divisional Headquarters within the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, also resulted in the safe rescue of three minors who had been caught up in the criminal network. Law enforcement authorities have continued to prioritize child safety and security across the region, leading to swift actions when suspicious movements or missing person cases are reported.
According to the official statements released by the command public relations office, the operation commenced following a detailed, intelligence-led investigation into a reported case of child disappearance. Detectives zeroed in on a primary suspect, 36-year-old Kikelomo Jimoh, who was apprehended during the initial phase of the crackdown. Upon intense interrogation, Jimoh allegedly confessed to her involvement in the illicit trade and provided crucial leads that directed operatives straight to the residence of another suspect, 60-year-old Blessing Anochike. A third suspect, identified as Kayode Elizabeth, was also rounded up as investigations unraveled the full extent of the syndicate's operations.
Upon raiding the designated location, police officers successfully rescued three children. The victims were identified as 14-year-old Christiana Olowokere, 16-year-old Olamilekan Abdurusheed, and 12-year-old Adeniji Rebecca. Preliminary findings revealed deeply disturbing details regarding how each minor ended up in the custody of the syndicate. Investigators discovered that young Christiana Olowokere was allegedly sold off for the sum of five hundred thousand naira, highlighting the grim commercial nature of the child-trafficking ring. Meanwhile, Olamilekan Abdurusheed had reportedly absconded from his direct family home prior to being intercepted and exploited by the network. Authorities noted that investigations regarding the exact circumstances surrounding the movement and custody of the third child, Adeniji Rebecca, remain active as detectives piece together all available evidence.
Following the successful rescue operation, the police command confirmed that all three minors are currently safe and kept in protective custody while legal processes move forward. Recognizing the severity and wider implications of the crime, the state commissioner of police directed that the case file and all suspects be immediately transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department located at Eleweran, Abeokuta. This transfer is meant to facilitate a discreet, comprehensive, and thorough investigation aimed at exposing any other hidden accomplices, buyers, or collaborators connected to the wider criminal enterprise.
The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, praised the tactical response and diligence displayed by the Ibafo division detectives. He reiterated the command's unyielding stance on detecting, disrupting, and dismantling any criminal networks that prey on vulnerable members of society, particularly children and teenagers.
Emphasizing that security is a collective duty, the police leadership issued a passionate appeal to parents, guardians, community leaders, school administrators, and transport operators to stay alert. Residents were strongly encouraged to report any unexplained disappearances, unusual custody arrangements, or suspicious activities immediately through the dedicated emergency channels provided by the command, reminding the public that safeguarding children requires total vigilance from everyone.
