Oyo Police Rescue 17 Children, Six Die in Captivity

The Oyo State Police Command reported that six children abducted by a suspected human trafficking syndicate died in captivity. The police rescued 17 children and arrested seven suspects following an intelligence-led investigation.

Commissioner of Police Mr Abimbola Olugbenga announced these developments during a press briefing on Monday at the Command’s Headquarters in Ibadan. The investigation was initiated after a petition dated July 29, 2026, from Adejoke Popoola, alleging conspiracy and other offenses.

During the investigation, detectives were alerted to the disappearance of three-year-old Ifakunle Ifagbenro during a masquerade festival on June 29. Popoola was arrested on August 4 and confessed to stealing over 15 children from various events.

She identified Adekanbi Janet as an accomplice, leading to further rescues in Ogun State and Delta State. The investigation revealed that some stolen children were kept until buyers were found, and two pregnant women were also recovered.