THREE CHILDREN RESCUED AS OGUN POLICE UNRAVEL ALLEGED TRAFFICKING NETWORK

THREE CHILDREN RESCUED AS OGUN POLICE UNRAVEL ALLEGED TRAFFICKING NETWORK

By Jennifer Nwosu 

A police investigation into the disappearance and movement of children around Ibafo has led detectives to a suspected child-stealing network, with three women arrested and three children recovered in a case now before the Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department.

In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, the breakthrough followed an intelligence-driven investigation that began with the arrest of 36-year-old Kikelomo Jimoh. Investigators said information obtained during questioning took them to the residence of 60-year-old Blessing Anochike, where the three children were found.

The children were identified as 14-year-old Christiana Olowokere, 16-year-old Olamilekan Abdurusheed and 12-year-old Adeniji Rebecca. Police said preliminary findings indicate that Christiana was allegedly sold for ₦500,000, while Olamilekan, who had previously left home, was later allegedly abducted.

The circumstances surrounding Rebecca’s movement and custody are also being examined as detectives work to piece together what happened to each child and determine whether the arrests have exposed a wider operation.

Kayode Elizabeth was also arrested in connection with the case, bringing the number of suspects in custody to three. All remain detained as investigators establish their individual roles and trace any other people who may have been involved.

The case has been transferred to the SCID, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for a deeper investigation. Police said the rescued children are safe and that the inquiry will focus on establishing the full chain of events surrounding their movement and alleged exploitation.

The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Ibafo detectives for their intervention and renewed the Command’s focus on crimes involving children and other vulnerable people. He urged parents, schools, neighbours, community leaders, transport operators and the wider public to treat unexplained disappearances or suspicious custody arrangements as matters requiring immediate attention.

Members of the public can provide credible information through the Gateway Shield toll-free line 0800 000 9111, or the emergency numbers 09164859299 and 09154293464.