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The Police Command in Ondo State says it has intercepted a suspected child trafficking syndicate and rescued a 13-year-old girl along the Owena axis of the state.
Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Akure, the state capital.
Jimoh said the suspects were intercepted and arrested on April 23 at about 18:44hrs at the Owena Checkpoint by personnel of the Nigerian Army.
He said the suspects were travelling in a Toyota Hummer 18-seater commercial bus from Lagos to Abuja when they were arrested.
“The vehicle was fully loaded with waybills and driven by one Akomolafe Tope ‘M’, aged 59 years, alongside a conductor, one Sunday Ismaila ‘M’, aged 48 years.
“Upon thorough scrutiny, a 13-year-old girl was found in their custody under suspicious circumstances.
“Preliminary questioning revealed that the suspects could not provide credible or verifiable information regarding the identity, origin, or destination of the minor, thereby raising strong suspicion of child trafficking.
“The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the minor was rescued and placed under protective care,” he said.
Jimoh said the case had been transferred to the Gender-Based Offences Unit of the command for discreet and comprehensive investigation, adding that the suspects would be charged to court after the investigation.
He said the operation underscored the strong inter-agency collaboration between the Police Command in Ondo State, the Nigerian Army, and other relevant security actors.
According to him, the synergy has enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated responses and rapid intervention in critical situations.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for crimes against children and other vulnerable groups.
He assured all that all individuals found culpable would be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The command also cautioned parents and guardians to remain vigilant and monitor the movement and welfare of their children.
Transport operators were advised to properly document and verify the identities of passengers, especially minors, to prevent aiding criminal activities.
Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious movements or activities involving children to the nearest police station or relevant security agency.
Jimoh said the command remained committed to safeguarding lives and property, and would continue to collaborate with sister security agencies to combat human trafficking and related crimes.
(NAN)
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