Ogun State, Nigeria – In a significant breakthrough, the Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun, has dismantled a sex trafficking syndicate operating in Ifo town, Ogun State.
The syndicate reportedly lured underage girls from various states under false pretenses and exploited them as sex workers, charging customers as little as ₦1,000 per session.
Shocking Details Emerge
Among the victims was a 14-year-old girl who revealed harrowing details of her ordeal.
According to her testimony, traffickers lured her from Akwa Ibom with the promise of a salesgirl job.
Upon arrival, they drugged her, cut her hair, and threatened to kill her if she tried to escape.
The syndicate leader allegedly used her hair for rituals to instill fear and ensure her obedience.
For months, they forced her into prostitution, making her service up to 20 men daily.
She revealed that she handed all her earnings, ranging from ₦1,000 to ₦5,000 per session, to her “madam,” Mrs. Edem Joy.
Mrs. Edem reportedly worked under the direction of another suspect, 60-year-old Mrs. Okutoro Yemisi.
Modus Operandi of the Syndicate
The syndicate primarily targeted young girls from Akwa Ibom, Calabar, and Delta States, with a particular focus on Akwa Ibom.
Traffickers forced victims to take oaths using their blood, hair, or religious items like the Bible to ensure silence and prevent escape.
They further controlled the girls by administering drugs and charms before sending them to various hotels for exploitation.
Victims were lured with promises of freedom after a year of servitude, along with a phone and a box of clothes.
However, the traffickers never honored these promises, leaving the victims trapped in a cycle of abuse and exploitation.
Disturbingly, the victims also alleged that their traffickers collected tissues used by customers after each session for suspected ritual purposes.
Youngest Victim Only 12 Years Old
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The youngest victim rescued during the operation was a 12-year-old girl.
Authorities acted on an anonymous tip received on February 8th, leading to the arrest of several suspects at Railway Line Hotel near Old Bank Bus Stop in Ifo town.
Items recovered during the raid included lubricants, drugs, cash, and charms.
Arrests and Investigation
The arrested suspects include Mrs. Edem Joy and her alleged boss, Mrs. Okutoro Yemisi.
Both women are believed to be key figures in the trafficking ring.
The rescued victims are currently receiving medical care and counseling as authorities continue their investigation.
Community Outrage and Call for Justice
The discovery has sparked outrage among residents and human rights groups, who are calling for swift justice against the perpetrators.
“This is a heinous crime against humanity,” said a local activist.
“We urge the government to ensure these criminals face the full weight of the law and to take stronger measures to protect vulnerable children.”
Authorities Vow Action
Amotekun officials have assured the public that they are committed to dismantling trafficking networks in the region.
“This operation is just the beginning,” said a spokesperson for the security outfit. “We will continue to work tirelessly to bring all those involved in such despicable acts to justice.”
The rescued victims are expected to be reintegrated into society with support from social welfare organizations.
Meanwhile, authorities are urging anyone with information about similar operations to come forward.
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
