Police in Ogun State has dismantled a child trafficking ring headed by a suspect known as Mama Faith, who is currently detained at the Ibara Correctional Centre.
Three other individuals—ThankGod Taiwo (35), Patience Chikezie (54), and Oluyinka Folake (43)—were arrested in connection with the illegal business.
The State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo, paraded the suspects at the command headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta during a press briefing on Monday, January 6, 2025
Taiwo was arrested at his hideout after kidnapping a seven-year-old girl, Mercy Akande. He sold the child to Chikezie for N650,000 at Ipaja Roundabout in Lagos.
Chikieze, arrested on 29 December at Lafenwa-Itele, led police to her residence, where the child was rescued unhurt.
According to the police chief, Chikieze confessed that her buyer rejected Mercy because of her age.
Further investigations revealed that Chikieze had previously purchased a three-year-old boy, Mohees Daniel, for N250,000 and sold him for N3 million.
Chikieze also allegedly bought another child, David Jesulayomi, from Oluyinka for N1.5 million, which she attempted to sell for profit.
Both children were recovered, along with fake adoption agreements issued by Chikieze.
“She created a WhatsApp group named Prema Consult to lure unsuspecting adopters under the guise of legal child adoption,” the CP explained.
“She and her accomplices, including Taiwo and Folake, confessed to working for Mama Faith, who orchestrated the illegal operations.”
CP Ogunlowo, who assumed office three weeks ago, warned criminals in the state to desist from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
He urged residents to support the police with timely intelligence to combat crime effectively.
While speaking to newsmen, Chikezie, a mother of two, confessed to the crime and begged for forgiveness.
“It’s not right. I have offended man and God. I plead for mercy.”