In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, operatives of the Ogun State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, raided a suspected human trafficking camp in the Ifo Local Government Area on Wednesday, leading to the arrest of 16 individuals.
The operation, which took place at the Railway Line Hotel along Old Bank Road in Ifo, resulted in the apprehension of suspects identified as Anabell Udo, Ubong Rejoice, Edaefe Sharon, Godwin Bassey, Okon Lovett, Eden Miracle, Monday Angel, Marvelous Samuel, Edet Nice, Asukwo Gift, Effiong Joy, Effiong Blessing, Asukwo Faith, UK Saviour, Andrew Ella, and Eden Joy.
During a press briefing at the Amotekun command headquarters in Abeokuta, the state commandant, Commander Alade Adedigba, revealed that the suspects, aged between 12 and 29, were arrested following an intelligence report received on Saturday. The raid was conducted at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Wednesday.
Adedigba disclosed that 14 of the girls were trafficked from Akwa Ibom State, while others hailed from Cross River and Delta states. He identified Mrs. Eden Joy as the alleged mastermind behind the trafficking ring. However, during interrogation, Eden Joy claimed that the hotel owner, Mrs. Okutoro Yemisi, 60, was her superior.
The victims reportedly revealed harrowing details of their ordeal, stating that they were forced to take oaths while naked and had their hair cut for rituals, instilling fear and preventing them from attempting to escape.
Items recovered from the scene included N819,600 in cash, various types of drugs, a carton of condoms, energy enhancers, and packs of tissue paper. The suspects also confessed that used tissue paper from clients was collected and stored by their boss for undisclosed purposes.
Commander Adedigba issued a stern warning to the public, emphasizing that Ogun State would not tolerate any form of lawlessness or threats to security. He commended residents for providing timely information that led to the successful operation. The suspects are set to be handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and prosecution.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by the Amotekun Corps to combat human trafficking and other criminal activities in the state.
