By Emma Peter, Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force, through the Oyo State Command, has uncovered a suspected child-stealing and human trafficking network operating across several states, resulting in the rescue of 17 children and the arrest of seven suspects.
According to a press statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on Monday, the investigation followed credible intelligence concerning the disappearance of three-year-old Ifakunle Ifagbenro, who reportedly went missing during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on June 29, 2026.
The statement said detectives investigating the disappearance arrested Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4. During questioning, Popoola allegedly disclosed her involvement in the movement and sale of children reportedly taken from churches, parties and other event venues within and outside Oyo State.
Her disclosures, according to the statement, led investigators to Mowe, Ogun State, where Adekanbi Janet, also known as Hosanna, was arrested. Four children and two pregnant young women were reportedly rescued from her custody.
The police said further leads obtained during the investigation enabled detectives to trace Ifakunle to the Gbagi area of Ibadan, where the three-year-old was rescued on August 20.
According to the press statement, subsequent investigations indicated that the suspected criminal operation had extended beyond Oyo and Ogun states, prompting detectives to expand their activities to other locations.
The statement added that police operatives travelled to Agbor, Delta State, on September 2, where four children allegedly stolen from Oyo State were rescued from individuals suspected of having unlawfully acquired them. Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse were arrested in connection with the operation.
The investigation has also brought to light allegations that some deceased victims were allegedly handed over to persons suspected of engaging in ritual activities. Police consequently arrested Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez as investigations continue into their alleged roles.
The Command further disclosed that it had received information suggesting that six children may have died while in the custody of members of the suspected network. Investigators are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and determine the individuals responsible.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, commended the Oyo State Command for the breakthrough and directed the investigators to intensify efforts to dismantle the entire network, trace other missing children and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
CSP Iniedu said the Nigeria Police Force remained committed to protecting children and other vulnerable persons, disrupting organised criminal operations and ensuring that suspects involved in child-related crimes are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
