The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, led by State Commandant Augustine Padonu, today paraded suspects involved in human trafficking and fuel smuggling operation, marking significant breakthroughs in the fight against these illegal activities.

In a press briefing held at the Command Headquarters in Ibadan, Commandant 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.

Commandant Padonu stated, “These arrests demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children, from exploitation and abuse.”

In a separate operation on July 30, 2024, the NSCDC’s Monitoring Team uncovered a fuel smuggling operation near Gwagwasu Moore Road, Kishi. 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.

The NSCDC Oyo State Command reaffirms its dedication 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.

DSC Samuel Opebiyi,

Public Relations Officer

NSCDC, Oyo State Command