Nigeria: Police Bust Child Trafficking Syndicate in Oyo, Rescue 17 Children

The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled an alleged child-stealing and human trafficking syndicate operating in Oyo, Ogun and Delta states, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects. Intelligence-led investigations into the disappearance of a three-year-old child during a masquerade festival in Oyo town on June 29, 2026, led to the arrest of Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4.

Popoola confessed to involvement in stealing, moving and selling children from churches, parties and other event venues within and outside Oyo State. Additional arrests followed, including Adekanbi Janet, also known as Hosanna, who was apprehended in Mowe, Ogun State, leading to the rescue of four children and two pregnant young women from her custody.

The investigation extended to Agbor, Delta State, where four more children were rescued from suspects who had illegally acquired them. The alleged network also allegedly involved transferring deceased victims to persons involved in ritual activities, leading to the arrest of Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, praised the Oyo State Command's efforts and directed intensified actions to dismantle the network, locate more missing children and ensure justice for perpetrators.