The Nigeria Police Force, through the Oyo State Command, has uncovered a child-stealing and human trafficking network operating across state lines, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects following an intelligence-led investigation.

The investigation commenced following credible intelligence concerning the disappearance of a three-year-old child, Ifakunle Ifagbenro, who went missing during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on 29 June 2026. Following extensive investigative efforts, detectives identified and arrested Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on 4 August 2026.

Upon her arrest, Popoola disclosed her involvement in the alleged stealing, movement and sale of children from churches, parties and other event venues within and outside Oyo State. Her disclosures also led detectives to Adekanbi Janet, also known as Hosanna, who was subsequently arrested in Mowe, Ogun State. Four children and two pregnant young women were rescued from her custody.

Further information obtained during the investigation provided leads to the whereabouts of Ifakunle, resulting in his rescue in the Gbagi area of Ibadan on 20 August 2026. The investigation subsequently revealed that the criminal network extended beyond Oyo and Ogun States.

Acting on the emerging leads, Police detectives on 2 September 2026 extended the operation to Agbor, Delta State, where four children allegedly stolen from Oyo State were rescued from persons suspected to have illegally acquired them. Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse were arrested in connection with the operation, further confirming the interstate nature of the criminal network.

The investigation also uncovered allegations that deceased victims were transferred to persons involved in ritual activities. This led to the arrest of Muritala Fasasi and Yakubu Azeez, who are being investigated in connection with the alleged use of victims for ritual purposes. The Command has also received information concerning six children who allegedly died while in the custody of members of the network, with efforts ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, commended the Oyo State Command for the breakthrough and directed that efforts be sustained to dismantle the entire network, locate additional missing children and ensure that all persons found culpable are brought to justice.