The Police Command in Ondo State 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 this in a statement issued on Saturday in Akure, the state capital.
According to Jimoh, 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 intercepted.
“The vehicle, driven by Akomolafe Tope, 59, with a conductor, Sunday Ismaila, 48, was fully loaded with waybills,” he said.
“Upon thorough scrutiny, a 13-year-old girl was discovered in their custody under suspicious circumstances.
“Preliminary questioning revealed that the suspects could not provide credible or verifiable information regarding the identity, origin, or destination of the minor, raising strong suspicion of child trafficking.”
Jimoh said the suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the rescued girl was placed under protective care.
He added that the case had been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit of the command for a thorough investigation, noting that the suspects would be charged to court upon its conclusion.
The spokesperson said the operation highlighted effective collaboration between the police, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies, which has improved intelligence sharing and rapid response to criminal activities.
The commissioner of police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and other vulnerable groups, assuring that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The Command also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and monitor the movement and welfare of their children.
Transport operators were advised to properly document and verify passengers’ identities, especially minors, to avoid aiding criminal acts.
Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious activities involving children to the nearest police station or relevant authorities.
Jimoh reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through sustained collaboration with other security agencies to combat human trafficking and related offences.
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