Police bust suspected human trafficking ring in Ondo after dehumanizing woman

The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a human trafficking syndicate operating across international borders, rescuing a 21-year-old woman who was allegedly deceived and trafficked to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire under the pretence of securing legitimate employment.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.

According to the statement, the victim, Akinwunmi Faith, was reportedly lured abroad on February 22, 2026, by three suspects identified as Akinlaja Blessings, Johnson Ahomari, and a third accomplice, Grace, who is currently at large. They allegedly promised her a job as a supermarket sales assistant.

Her mother, Akinwunmi Olubunmi, had earlier reported her disappearance at the Okitipupa Police Division on April 13, 2026, triggering investigations into the case.

Police findings revealed that upon arrival in Côte d’Ivoire, the victim was instead forced into prostitution and subjected to exploitative conditions. She reportedly endured severe abuse and was controlled by her traffickers in inhumane circumstances.

In a dramatic turn, the victim escaped on April 6, 2026, trekking through a bush path to a nearby community, where she contacted her family. She was later returned to Nigeria on April 11 and taken to the State Specialist Hospital, Okitipupa, for urgent medical and psychological care.

Acting on intelligence, operatives of the Command arrested two suspects, Akinlaja Blessings and Johnson Ahomari, who are currently in custody assisting with investigations. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Grace, and dismantle the wider trafficking network.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, condemned the incident, describing it as “inhuman and a gross violation of human dignity,” and assured that all those involved would be brought to justice.