Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have intercepted a suspected child trafficking syndicate and rescued a 13-year-old girl along the Owena axis of the state.
The breakthrough, which occurred on April 23, 2026, followed a joint operation involving security personnel who stopped a commercial bus travelling from Lagos to Abuja at the Owena checkpoint.
The vehicle, a Toyota Hummer 18-seater loaded with waybills, was driven by a 59-year-old man, Akomolafe Tope, alongside his conductor, Sunday Ismaila, 48.
Security sources said suspicion was raised during routine checks when a minor was discovered in the custody of the suspects under unclear circumstances.
Preliminary interrogation reportedly showed that the duo could not provide credible details regarding the identity, origin, or destination of the girl, heightening fears of a trafficking attempt.
The suspects were immediately arrested, while the victim was rescued and placed under protective care.
The case has been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit of the command for further investigation, with authorities confirming that the suspects would be charged upon conclusion of the probe.
The police said the operation highlighted effective collaboration between security agencies, noting that intelligence sharing and coordinated response played a critical role in the rescue.
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.
He also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant over their children, while advising transport operators to properly document and verify passengers, especially minors, to avoid aiding criminal activities.
Residents were further encouraged to report suspicious movements involving children to the nearest security agency.
The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, vowing to sustain collaboration with other agencies in the fight against human trafficking and related crimes.