The Oyo State Police Command has uncovered a suspected child-stealing and human-trafficking syndicate operating across Oyo, Ogun and Delta states, rescuing 17 children and arresting seven suspects.
The investigation began after three-year-old Ifakunle Ifagbenro disappeared during a masquerade festival in Oyo Town on June 29, 2026. Police arrested Adejoke Popoola, also known as Orente Alagbo, on August 4 and said her interrogation led investigators to a wider network allegedly involved in stealing, moving and selling children.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Adekanbi Janet, also known as Hosanna, in Mowe, Ogun State, where four children and two pregnant young women were rescued. Ifakunle was later found and rescued in the Gbagi area of Ibadan on August 20.
On September 2, detectives extended the operation to Agbor, Delta State, where four children allegedly stolen from Oyo were rescued. Two suspected buyers, Christopher Joy and Rosemary Jesse, were arrested.
Police also said the investigation uncovered allegations that some children who died while in the syndicate’s custody were transferred to persons suspected of involvement in ritual activities. Six children have reportedly been confirmed dead, with police continuing efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu commended the Oyo Command and directed officers to dismantle the entire network, locate more missing children and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.