The Oyo State Police Command has uncovered a suspected child-stealing and human trafficking network operating across state boundaries, leading to the rescue of 17 children and the arrest of seven suspects.
The breakthrough followed an intelligence-led investigation into a criminal network allegedly involved in the recruitment, movement, sale and concealment of children.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, disclosed the development on Monday, September 7, 2026, during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan.
According to the police, the investigation began after a petition was received on July 29, 2026. What initially appeared to be a dispute involving allegations of conspiracy, cyberbullying, threats to life and defamation eventually led investigators to a much wider criminal operation.
Police Uncover Wider Child Trafficking Operation
Investigators reportedly discovered a pattern in which children were allegedly identified, moved from one location to another, sold and concealed as part of an organised trafficking operation.
The investigation also revealed that the suspected syndicate allegedly operated beyond Oyo State, prompting police authorities to intensify efforts to trace the network and locate children believed to have been taken across state lines.
As a result of the operation, 17 children were rescued and seven suspects were taken into custody for questioning and further investigation.
The police said the investigation is still ongoing as officers work to establish the full extent of the syndicate’s activities and identify other individuals who may be connected to the operation.
Six Children Allegedly Died in Captivity
In a particularly disturbing development, the Oyo State Police Command also disclosed that six children allegedly abducted by the syndicate died while in captivity.
The disclosure has added another serious dimension to the investigation, with authorities working to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine the specific roles allegedly played by members of the criminal network.
The command said the rescued children have been taken into protective care as investigations continue.
Investigation Continues
The police are expected to continue tracking the suspected trafficking network across state borders while efforts are being made to identify other victims and possible accomplices.
Authorities have also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities involving children to law enforcement agencies.
The latest operation underscores the growing concern over organised child trafficking and the need for stronger cooperation among security agencies to disrupt criminal networks involved in the exploitation and movement of children across Nigeria.
