Police rescue girl sex-trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire, arrest traffickers

By Boye Oyeyemi

A 21-year-old woman, Akinwunmi Faith, trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire has been rescued by operatives of the Ondo State Police Command after she was allegedly forced into prostitution under inhumane conditions.

The rescue followed a coordinated investigation by the police, leading to the victim’s safe return to Nigeria after weeks of exploitation abroad.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the operation was carried out under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal.

Preliminary findings revealed that the victim had been trafficked on February 22, 2026, by three suspects who allegedly lured her with promises of a salesgirl job but instead subjected her to sexual exploitation.

“She was forced into prostitution and exposed to inhumane treatment, while substances were reportedly administered to her and other victims to control and exploit them,” the statement said.

However, the victim managed to escape from the brothel on April 6 and made her way to a nearby town, from where she contacted her family, leading to her eventual return to Nigeria on April 11.

Subsequently, she was taken to the State Specialist Hospital in Okitipupa for urgent medical attention due to the physical and psychological trauma she endured during her ordeal.

Meanwhile, the police disclosed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend a third suspect still at large, as the commissioner condemned the act and assured that all perpetrators would be brought to justice while urging parents to verify overseas job offers.