In a major breakthrough against human trafficking, the Ondo State Police Command has rescued 15 young women from a notorious sex trafficking syndicate operating under the guise of job recruitment and social media content creation. The rescue operation also led to the arrest of three suspects, including the alleged mastermind, Jayeola Joshua.
The victims, aged between 20 and 26, were found in an apartment in the Alagbaka area of Akure, where they were reportedly held and exploited for illicit sexual activities. The operation was carried out by the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team of the Ondo State Police Command.
DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the police spokesperson, revealed in a statement on Sunday that preliminary investigations had uncovered the sophisticated nature of the syndicate’s operations. According to Ayanlade, the criminal network lured young women from various parts of Nigeria with false promises of employment, including domestic work, ushering jobs, and overseas placements.
“The syndicate’s operations exposed a deeply organised network of criminals who exploit the vulnerabilities of unsuspecting young women in search of legitimate means of livelihood,” Ayanlade said. He explained that the victims were coerced into producing nude photos and videos, which were later shared with clients requesting sexual services. The syndicate disguised the operation as creating “relationship content” for social media to mask its criminal nature.
The principal suspect, Jayeola Joshua, reportedly collected the largest share of the proceeds from the illegal activities. Two other suspects, whose identities have not yet been disclosed, were also arrested during the raid, while police continue efforts to apprehend other members of the network who remain at large.
Following their rescue, the victims were taken to the Police Hospital in Akure for medical treatment, psychological assessment, and counselling. Authorities have emphasized that rehabilitation and reintegration support will be provided to help the young women recover and reintegrate into society.
The investigation revealed that the apartment used for the illegal activities was rented specifically for the syndicate’s operations. The Commissioner of Police (CP) has ordered that the property owner be invited for questioning to determine whether they were complicit or aware of the illicit activities taking place on their premises.
The case has been transferred to the Gender Desk Unit for a detailed investigation. The CP has directed that all arrested suspects be prosecuted in accordance with the law, reaffirming the command’s zero-tolerance approach to human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the state.
Human trafficking and sexual exploitation are growing concerns across Nigeria. According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), young women and girls are often targeted due to poverty, lack of education, and unemployment, making them vulnerable to traffickers who promise lucrative opportunities. Experts have stressed that community awareness, family vigilance, and verification of job offers are critical in preventing such crimes.
DSP Ayanlade urged parents and guardians to exercise caution and verify recruitment agents before allowing their children or wards to travel for employment. He also called on the public to remain alert and report credible information about suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
“This operation demonstrates the police’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks involved in trafficking and exploitation,” Ayanlade said. “Community partnership remains vital to maintaining safety and security in Ondo State. We urge everyone to work with us in identifying and reporting such crimes to protect vulnerable citizens.”
This rescue comes amid growing concerns about human trafficking in Nigeria, where traffickers exploit young women and men, often for forced labour or sexual exploitation. Authorities have warned that traffickers are increasingly using social media and online platforms to lure victims under the pretext of legitimate opportunities.
The Ondo State Police Command has pledged to sustain its efforts against trafficking syndicates and other criminal networks. Investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected as the police work to bring all perpetrators to justice.
Community leaders in Akure have praised the police for the successful operation. “We are thankful to the police for their vigilance and swift action,” a local leader said. “This rescue will give hope to families and send a strong message to criminals exploiting our youth.”
The police have also reiterated that anyone found aiding human traffickers or participating in similar illicit activities will face prosecution. Authorities stress that tackling human trafficking requires combined efforts from law enforcement, families, communities, and government agencies.
