The police command in Ondo State said it intercepted a child trafficking syndicate and rescued a 13 year-old girl along Owena axis Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, stated this in a statement on Saturday in Akure.

Mr Jimoh said the suspects were intercepted and arrested on April 23 at about 18:44hrs at the Owena checkpoint by operatives of the Nigerian Army.

The police spokesperson said that the suspects were in a Toyota Hummer 18-seater commercial bus travelling from Lagos to Abuja when arrested.

He said, “The vehicle was fully loaded with waybills and driven by one Akomolafe Tope ‘M,’ aged 59 years, alongside a conductor, one Sunday Ismaila ‘M,’ aged 48 years. Upon thorough scrutiny, a 13-year-old girl was found 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, thereby raising strong suspicion of child trafficking. The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the minor was rescued and placed under protective care.”

Mr Jimoh, who explained that the case had been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit of the command for discreet and comprehensive investigation, said the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.

He said the operation further underscored the strong and effective inter-agency collaboration between the police in Ondo State, the Nigerian Army, and other relevant non-state actors operating within the state.

According to him, the synergy has significantly enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated responses, and rapid intervention in critical situations.

He added, “The Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state, Adebowale Lawal, has reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and other vulnerable groups.

“Lawal also assures the public that all individuals found culpable in this case will be brought to justice in accordance with the law. The command further uses this medium to caution members of the public, particularly parents and guardians, to remain vigilant and monitor the movement and welfare of their children.

“Transport operators are also advised to properly document and verify the identities of passengers, especially minors, to prevent aiding of criminal activities.

“Residents are encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities involving children to the nearest police station or relevant security agency.

“Conclusively, the Police Command in Ondo State remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, and will continue to collaborate with sister security agencies to combat human trafficking and related crimes.”

(NAN)