The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has paraded suspects involved in human trafficking and fuel smuggling operation, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal activities.
The development in a press briefing at the Command Headquarters, Agodi Ibadan by the state Commandant, Augustine Padonu revealed that on August 6, 2024, the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Right Protection Unit arrested four individuals suspected of trafficking young women and minors for prostitution.
The suspects, identified as Joy Ben (33), Blessing Edet (33), Rose Michael (37), and Okechukwu Michael, allegedly operated a network that brought underage girls from villages to Ibadan for exploitation in a hotel, located in Apate, Ibadan. Nine victims, including two minors, were rescued during the operation.
Addressing newsmen, the Commandant, Augustine Padonu stated that the arrest demonstrated the unwavering commitment of the NSCDC Command to protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children, from exploitation and abuse.
According to him, in a separate operation on July 30, 2024, the NSCDC’s Monitoring Team uncovered a fuel smuggling operation near Gwagwasu Moore Road, Kishi, adding that the team discovered 55 kegs, each containing 30 liters of suspected Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), hidden in the forest, while the suspects fled upon sighting the NSCDC team, 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 pose risks to public safety,” Commandant Padonu emphasized.
Commandant Padonu reaffirmed the dedication of the Command to combating human trafficking and fuel smuggling, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The suspects in the human trafficking case will be arraigned in court following the conclusion of investigations.
