The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a notorious sex trafficking syndicate that exploited young women under the guise of job recruitment and social media content creation. According to a statement by DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the command’s spokesperson, one Jayeola Joshua and two others were arrested, while 15 young girls aged 20 to 26 were rescued from an apartment in Alagbaka, Akure.

The syndicate, which was busted by the command’s Special Weapons and Tactics team, lured victims from across the country with false promises of lucrative employment, including domestic work, ushering services, and overseas placements. Investigations revealed that the victims were manipulated into sending nude images and videos to clients, which were then used to procure sexual services. The principal suspect received the largest share of the proceeds, while the operation was disguised as producing “relationship content” on social media.

The 15 rescued victims were taken to the Police Hospital in Akure for medical care, psychological evaluation, and counseling. The Commissioner of Police has directed that the case be transferred to the command’s Gender Desk for further investigation, counseling, and reintegration of the victims into society. The CP has also ordered the prosecution of all arrested suspects to demonstrate the command’s zero-tolerance stance on human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

The Ondo State Police Command’s efforts to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation are part of a broader initiative to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly young women, from organized crime. The command has urged parents and guardians to verify job offers and recruitment agents before allowing their wards to travel, and has encouraged the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to aid in preventing and detecting crime.

The dismantling of the sex trafficking syndicate highlights the importance of community partnership in maintaining public safety. The Ondo State Police Command’s determination to eradicate criminal networks engaged in human trafficking and sexual exploitation is a significant step towards protecting the rights and dignity of young women. As the investigation continues, the command remains committed to bringing perpetrators to justice and providing support to victims.