Lagos police have rescued six children, aged between six and 13, who were found locked inside an apartment in Jakande Estate, Oke-Afa. The shocking discovery was made following a tip-off from vigilant estate security officials.
The children, four boys and two girls, have been identified as Chidimma (13), Chisom (12), Ikechukwu (10), Ifeoma (9), Emeka (8), and Oluchi (6). However, their relationship to each other and their true parentage remain uncertain.
The children were reportedly being kept in the flat by a yet-to-be-identified Nigerian woman based in the United Kingdom. She allegedly arranged for a man, known only as Levinus, to bring them food before leaving immediately. The police are now investigating whether the case involves child trafficking, kidnapping, or another form of exploitation.
Security Officials Raise Alarm
The first alert about the situation came from the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the estate, Ajibola Lalas, who circulated a message to residents, warning of a potential child trafficking ring operating in Zone 23 of the estate.
“On Saturday, February 15, at about 7 a.m., a distress call was received by the security team of Jakande Residents Association,” Lalas stated. “Upon arrival at the flat in question, our security team found six children inside. Upon interrogation, they revealed that a woman living in the UK had left them there, with a man named Levinus occasionally delivering food.”
Following this discovery, the estate’s security team immediately contacted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ejigbo Division, who led officers to the scene.
“The DPO and the police team were shocked by what they found inside the house. The six children were promptly taken to the Ejigbo Division, where further questioning took place,” Lalas explained.
‘Our Mummy Is in London’ – Child’s Shocking Testimony
While being questioned by the police, the children provided conflicting accounts of their relationship with the UK-based woman.
Oluchi, the youngest of the children, told officers, “Our mummy is in London. She told us we are from Abia State. I was six when I was brought here. She is the one who told us she is our mother. She usually sends Uncle Levinus to bring us food. After giving us our food, he would leave. We stay alone in the house.”
However, none of the children could confirm with certainty whether the woman was truly their biological mother. This has deepened suspicions surrounding the case, prompting authorities to widen their investigation.
Police Launch Full Investigation
Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hudenyin, confirmed the development and reassured the public that the matter was being thoroughly investigated.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we are working to track down others involved in the case, including the said woman and Levinus, who is currently at large,” Hudenyin said.
Authorities have since transferred the case to the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command in Ikeja for further investigation. The flat has been sealed by law enforcement.
