The Nigeria Police Force has uncovered a child-stealing and human trafficking syndicate operating across multiple states, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects following an intelligence-led operation led by the Oyo State Command.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, September 7, 2026.
The case began after credible intelligence on the disappearance of a 3-year-old boy, Ifakunle Ifagbenro, who went missing during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on June 29, 2026.
Following weeks of investigation, detectives arrested Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4, 2026.
During interrogation, Popoola allegedly confessed to involvement in the stealing, movement and sale of children from churches, parties and other event venues within and outside Oyo State.
Her confession led operatives to Adekanbi Janet, also known as Hosanna, who was arrested in Mowe, Ogun State. Four children and two pregnant young women were rescued from her custody.
Further leads resulted in the rescue of Ifakunle himself in the Gbagi area of Ibadan on August 20, 2026.
The investigation later extended to Agbor, Delta State on September 2, 2026, where four additional children allegedly stolen from Oyo State were rescued. Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse were arrested in connection with that operation, confirming the interstate nature of the network.
Police said the probe also uncovered allegations that some victims were transferred to persons involved in ritual activities. This led to the arrest of Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez, who are being investigated over the alleged use of victims for ritual purposes.
The Command added that it has received information concerning six children who allegedly died while in the custody of members of the network. Efforts are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the Oyo State Command for the breakthrough and directed that efforts be sustained to dismantle the entire network, locate additional missing children, and ensure all culpable persons are brought to justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting children and other vulnerable persons, dismantling criminal networks and ensuring that perpetrators of child-related crimes are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
The rescued children have been placed in protective custody as investigations continue.
