In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the Ogun State Police Command has rescued seven individuals from a suspected trafficking operation in the Oja-Odan area of Yewa North Local Government Area.
Truth Live News learnt that the incident unfolded when police intercepted a white Volkswagen bus with the registration number KRD 28 YL, marked as belonging to the Government of Anambra State, on Oja-Odan/Ohunbe Road on Monday, February 12, 2025. The driver, identified as Ezeani John Paul from Ichida, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State, along with several passengers, were arrested following the interception.
According to Omolola Odutola, the command’s spokesperson, the victims were being transported to the Republic of Gambia when security operatives intervened. The rescued individuals are Emmanuel Anyigor, 25; John Peter Ogar, 18; Chidioke Basil, 20; Emecheta Chimaodi, 18; Osondu Marvellous, 19; Ifeanyi Emmanuel Uchechukwu, 18; and Anizoba Chiagozie Emmanuel, 18.
“When questioned, the occupants were reportedly unable to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding their journey to the Republic of Gambia, raising suspicions of human trafficking,” Odutola stated. She added that the driver and passengers were apprehended by security personnel, and the case is under investigation. All suspects, along with the intercepted vehicle, will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiries.
Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo has urged residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious. “The CP, through his daily public enlightenment efforts, encourages state residents to stay vigilant and exercise caution. He emphasized that many crime victims could have avoided being targeted by taking basic personal security precautions,” Odutola quoted the CP as saying. He further advised everyone in the state to be proactive about their security and take steps to prevent becoming easy targets for criminals.