The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three women suspected of being linked to a child-stealing syndicate and rescued three children during an intelligence-led operation in Ibafo, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were identified as Kikelomo Jimoh, 36; Kayode Elizabeth; and Blessing Anochike, 60.
In a statement issued on Friday by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babasiyi, detectives attached to the Ibafo Division made the breakthrough while investigating a reported case of child stealing.
According to the police, Jimoh was initially arrested during the investigation and allegedly confessed to the crime. Her statement reportedly led detectives to Anochike’s residence, where three children were rescued.
The rescued children were identified as Christiana Olowokere, 14; Olamilekan Abdurusheed, 16; and Adeniji Rebecca, 12.
The police said preliminary investigations indicated that Christiana was allegedly sold for N500,000, while Olamilekan, who had previously left his parents’ home, was allegedly abducted later.
The circumstances surrounding the movement and custody of Adeniji are also being investigated, the command said.
The three children were rescued safely and are currently in protective custody, while the suspects remain detained.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for a comprehensive investigation to establish the full circumstances of the incident, determine the roles allegedly played by the suspects and identify other individuals who may be connected to the suspected criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ibafo detectives for their swift response and investigative efforts.
Ojajuni assured residents that the command would continue to identify and dismantle criminal networks targeting children and other vulnerable members of society.
He urged parents, guardians, community leaders, schools, transport operators and other members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities involving children.
The commissioner specifically called on residents to report unexplained disappearances, suspicious movements, unusual custody arrangements or any activity suggesting the sale, abduction or exploitation of children.
“A child’s safety is everyone’s responsibility. See something. Say something. Stay safe,” the command stated.
