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 operation, carried out on April 23, 2026, involved personnel of the Nigerian Army who stopped a Toyota Hummer 18-seater commercial bus en route from Lagos to Abuja at the Owena checkpoint.
The vehicle, reportedly loaded with waybills, was driven by 59-year-old Akomolafe Tope, alongside a conductor, Sunday Ismaila, aged 48.
Confirming the development in a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, and made available to journalists on Saturday, said the case has been transferred to its Gender-Based Offences Unit for a thorough and discreet investigation.
It was added that the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
The statement disclosed that during a search of the vehicle, officers discovered the young girl under circumstances that raised suspicion.
According to preliminary findings, the suspects were unable to provide consistent or verifiable information about the identity, origin, or intended destination of the minor.
The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the child was rescued and placed under protective care.
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The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, reiterated the command’s firm stance against crimes targeting children and vulnerable persons. He assured residents that justice would be served and all those found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
Lawal also highlighted the importance of collaboration among security agencies, noting that the successful interception reflects strong coordination between the police, the Nigerian Army, and other stakeholders. He said such partnerships have improved intelligence gathering and rapid response to criminal activities.
The police further urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s safety, while calling on transport operators to properly verify and document passengers, particularly minors, to avoid inadvertently aiding criminal acts.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his continued support and leadership, which he said has strengthened the morale and professionalism of officers within the command.
Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious activity involving children to the nearest security agency, as the police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and combating human trafficking across the state.