By Paul Joseph
The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a human trafficking syndicate operating within the state, rescuing a 21-year-old woman who was lured abroad and forced into prostitution.
The breakthrough was announced in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal.
According to the Command, the case was reported on April 13, 2026, by Mrs. Akinwunmi Olubunmi of Laju Street, Okitipupa, who alerted police that her daughter, Akinwunmi Faith, had been trafficked out of Nigeria under false pretences.
Investigations revealed that the victim was deceived on February 22, 2026, by three suspects Akinlaja Blessings, Johnson Ahomari, and a third suspect identified simply as Grace, who is currently at large.
The suspects allegedly promised the victim a legitimate job as a salesgirl in a supermarket in Côte d’Ivoire.
However, upon arrival, the young woman was reportedly forced into prostitution and subjected to inhumane treatment. She disclosed to authorities that she and other victims were coerced into sexual exploitation, with substances allegedly administered to control and manipulate them.
In a dramatic escape, the victim fled from the brothel on April 6, 2026, trekking through a bush path to a nearby town where she managed to contact her family. Arrangements were made for her return to Nigeria, and she arrived safely on April 11.
Police said she was immediately taken to the State Specialist Hospital in Okitipupa, where she received urgent medical attention for both physical injuries and psychological trauma.
Acting on the report, operatives of the Command launched intelligence-driven operations, leading to the arrest of two suspects Akinlaja Blessings and Johnson Ahomari. Both are currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the third suspect, Grace, and to dismantle the wider trafficking network linked to the crime. Police confirmed that all suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
Condemning the act, Commissioner of Police Lawal described human trafficking as “inhuman, exploitative, and a gross violation of human dignity,” assuring the public that justice will be served.
The Command also urged parents and guardians to exercise caution by verifying job offers, especially those involving travel abroad. Residents were encouraged to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to help combat trafficking and related crimes.
The police leadership further acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commending his leadership and strategic guidance in strengthening operations within the Command.
Reaffirming its stance, the Ondo State Police Command stated it remains committed to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring that perpetrators of human trafficking face the full weight of the law.
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