The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a notorious sex trafficking ring that allegedly exploited young women under the pretext of offering job opportunities and creating social media content.
In a statement released on Sunday in Akure, the Sate Police Command’s Spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, confirmed the development and said the operation led to the arrest of one Jayeola Joshua and two other suspects, while 15 young women, aged between 20 and 26, were rescued from an apartment in Alagbaka, Akure, where they were being held for illicit activities.
Ayanlade explained that the command’s Special Weapons and Tactics team carried out the arrest, adding that efforts were ongoing to track down other fleeing accomplices.
According to the spokesperson, investigations showed that the syndicate deceived victims from across the country with fake promises of well-paying jobs such as domestic work, ushering, and overseas employment.
He said the group’s operations not only enabled systematic exploitation but also exposed the tactics used by criminal networks that prey on vulnerable young women in search of legitimate opportunities.
“Further inquiry uncovered that the victims were manipulated into sending nude images and videos, which were subsequently transmitted to clients procuring sexual services.
“The principal suspect reportedly received the largest share of the proceeds, while the operation was disguised as producing ‘relationship content’ on social media, misleading the public and masking criminal intent.
“Following the rescue, the 15 victims were taken to the Police Hospital, Akure, for medical care, psychological evaluation, and counseling,” he said.
Ayanlade added that investigations revealed the apartment used by the syndicate was specifically rented for these illegal activities. Consequently, the Commissioner of Police ordered the landlord to be invited for questioning.
He further noted that the CP directed that the case be transferred to the command’s Gender Desk for detailed investigation, counseling, and reintegration of the rescued victims.
According to Ayanlade, the CP also gave firm instructions that all arrested suspects must face prosecution to reinforce the command’s zero-tolerance policy on human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
“This reaffirms the command’s determination to eradicate criminal networks engaged in human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
“The CP has urged parents and guardians to verify job offers and recruitment agents before allowing their wards to travel.
“He also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information that can aid in preventing and detecting crime across the state, underscoring the vital role of community partnership in maintaining public safety,” he said.
