Police Rescue 17 Children, Arrest Seven Over Alleged Interstate Trafficking Network
By Njideka Agbo
The Nigeria Police Force has uncovered an alleged interstate child trafficking and stealing network, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects following an intelligence led investigation by the Oyo State Police Command.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, September 7, 2026, saying the investigation began after three year old Ifakunle Ifagbenro disappeared during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on June 29.
Police said investigations led to the arrest of Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4. She allegedly admitted involvement in the stealing, movement and sale of children from churches, parties and other event venues within and outside Oyo State.
Her information reportedly led detectives 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 investigations led police to the Gbagi area of Ibadan, where Ifakunle was rescued on August 20.
The operation was later extended to Agbor, Delta State, on September 2, where four children allegedly stolen from Oyo State were rescued. Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse were arrested in connection with the operation.
Police said the investigation also uncovered allegations that some deceased victims were transferred to individuals involved in ritual activities. Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez were subsequently arrested and are being investigated over the allegations.
The Force said it also received information that six children allegedly died while in the custody of members of the network, adding that efforts were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.
The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the Oyo State Command for the breakthrough and directed investigators to sustain efforts to dismantle the alleged network, locate other missing children and ensure that anyone found culpable faces justice.
