Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have foiled a suspected child trafficking plot and rescued a 13-year-old girl at the Owena checkpoint.
The interception happened on April 23, 2026, during a joint security operation. Officers stopped a Lagos-to-Abuja commercial Toyota Hummer bus loaded with waybills at the Owena axis.
The vehicle was driven by 59-year-old Akomolafe Tope, with 48-year-old Sunday Ismaila as conductor.
Security sources said routine checks flagged suspicion when the minor was found with the two men under unclear circumstances.
During preliminary questioning, the suspects could not give credible details about the girl’s identity, origin, or destination — raising trafficking fears.
Both men were arrested on the spot. The victim was rescued and placed under protective care.
The case has been moved to the command’s Gender-Based Offences Unit for further investigation. Police confirmed the suspects will be charged once the probe is concluded.
Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal said the rescue showed how intelligence sharing and coordinated response can save lives. He restated the command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and vulnerable groups.
“We will ensure anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law,” Lawal said.
CP Lawal urged parents and guardians to stay vigilant over their children.
He advised transport operators to properly document and verify passengers, especially minors, to avoid aiding criminal activity.
Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious movements involving children to the nearest security agency.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, and to sustained collaboration with other agencies to combat human trafficking.
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