The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has paraded suspects involved in human trafficking and fuel smuggling operations in Ibadan, the capital city of the state.
The State Commandant, Augustine Padonu, disclosed that on August 6, 2024, the command’s Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Unit arrested four individuals for allegedly trafficking young women and minors for prostitution.
The suspects—identified as Joy Ben, Blessing Edet, Rose Michael, and Okechukwu Michael—were reportedly running a network that lured underage girls from villages to Ibadan, where they were exploited in a hotel in Apete. Nine victims, including two minors, were rescued during the operation.
“These arrests demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children, from exploitation and abuse,” Padonu stated.
In a separate incident on July 30, 2024, the NSCDC’s Monitoring Team uncovered a fuel smuggling operation near Gwagwasu Moore Road, Kishi. Fifty-five kegs, each containing 30 liters of suspected Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), were found hidden in a forest. Although the suspects managed to escape, efforts are ongoing to apprehend them.
“This discovery highlights the ongoing challenges posed by smuggling of petroleum products across the border, which not only undermine the economy but also serves as risk to public safety,” Padonu added.
The commandant emphasized the command’s dedication to combating human trafficking and smuggling activities, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. The suspects in the human trafficking case are expected to face court proceedings after the completion of investigations.
Packaged by Olufemi Aremu
