The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled an alleged child-stealing and human trafficking syndicate operating across several states, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects in an intelligence-led operation.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. According to Iniedu, the investigation began following the disappearance of a three-year-old child, Ifakunle Ifagbenro, during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on June 29, 2026.
Police detectives, acting on intelligence, arrested Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4. The police said Popoola allegedly confessed to participating in the stealing, movement, and sale of children from churches, parties, and other event venues within and outside Oyo State.
Her information reportedly led investigators 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,” Iniedu said.
Further information obtained during the investigation reportedly helped detectives locate Ifakunle, who was rescued in the Gbagi area of Ibadan on August 20. The investigation was subsequently expanded after police uncovered evidence suggesting that the alleged criminal network operated across state boundaries.
On September 2, police operatives extended the operation to Agbor, Delta State, where four children allegedly stolen from Oyo State were rescued from persons suspected of having illegally acquired them. Police arrested Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse in connection with the operation.
The police said the investigation also uncovered allegations that some victims who died in the custody of members of the alleged syndicate were transferred to individuals suspected of involvement in ritual activities. This development led to the arrest of Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez, who are being investigated over the alleged use of victims for ritual purposes.
Iniedu further disclosed that the police had received information about six children who allegedly died while in the custody of members of the network. He said investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the Oyo State Command for the breakthrough and directed that the operation be sustained. The IGP also ordered the police to dismantle the entire network, locate additional missing children and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Nigeria Police Force assured the public that investigations would continue to establish the full extent of the alleged syndicate’s operations, locate other possible victims and identify all persons involved. Police authorities urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving children to the appropriate security agencies.
