Amotekun Corps Rescues 16 Victims of Sexual Exploitation in Ogun State
Ifo, Ogun State – In a decisive operation underscoring the commitment to eradicating human trafficking and sexual exploitation, the Ogun State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, has successfully rescued 16 females, aged between 12 and 27 years, from a brothel in Ifo Local Government Area. The operation took place in the early hours of Wednesday at the Rail Line Hotel, a facility allegedly owned by a fugitive identified as Mrs. Yemisi Oguntoro.
The victims, predominantly teenagers, were promptly relocated to the Amotekun headquarters in Abeokuta for debriefing and support. Accompanying them was Mrs. Idem Nwanna Joy, who is suspected of being their handler. Preliminary investigations revealed that 14 of the rescued individuals hail from Akwa Ibom State, while the remaining two are from Cross River and Delta States, respectively.
Brigadier Alade Adedigba (retired), the Amotekun Corps Commander, provided insights into the operation during a press briefing. He emphasized that the intervention was initiated following credible intelligence from concerned residents of Ifo. The commander disclosed that a sum of ₦819,600 was recovered from the suspect, alongside items such as rolls of tissue paper, various drugs and medications believed to be stimulants, and multiple packs of condoms.
“This operation reflects Governor Dapo Abiodun’s unwavering dedication to enhancing security and safeguarding the welfare of Ogun State residents,” Brigadier Adedigba stated. He further affirmed, “Ogun State shall not be a safe haven for criminal elements of any type.”
The rescued individuals recounted harrowing experiences, revealing that they were coerced into taking oaths while unclothed, using holy books, to ensure their silence and prevent escape. One victim disclosed being compelled to engage with up to 10 men daily, with all earnings confiscated by their handler, who in return provided minimal sustenance.
In her defense, the alleged trafficker, Mrs. Idem Joy, claimed that the girls were entrusted to her care by their relatives and an accomplice currently at large. She asserted that portions of the proceeds were utilized to support the victims’ children and to compensate those who facilitated their recruitment. Mrs. Joy also mentioned that the girls had the freedom to leave if they so desired.
The Amotekun Corps has announced plans to transfer the case to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for comprehensive investigation and appropriate legal action. This incident highlights the persistent challenges of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the region. It underscores the critical importance of community vigilance and inter-agency collaboration in combating such heinous activities.
The Ogun State government continues to prioritize initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and dismantling networks that perpetuate exploitation. Authorities urge citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies promptly.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of human trafficking and the ongoing efforts required to eradicate it. The rescued individuals are now receiving the necessary care and support to aid their recovery and reintegration into society.