Police bust sex trafficking ring disguised as job recruitment, social media content house

The Ondo State Police Command has dismantled a major sex trafficking syndicate allegedly luring young women with fake job offers and promises of social media content opportunities.

In a statement released on Sunday in Akure, Police spokesperson Olushola Ayanlade confirmed the arrest of the suspected ring leader, Jayeola Joshua, along with two accomplices. The syndicate reportedly housed young women in an apartment in Alagbaka, Akure, where they were being exploited.

According to the police, 15 ladies between the ages of 20 and 26 were rescued during the operation. The victims had been deceived into believing they were recruited for legitimate employment and digital media engagements.

The spokesperson, who said the sex syndicate was arrested by the command’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), explained that efforts were on to apprehend the remaining accomplices.

According to him, investigations revealed that the syndicate lured victims across the country with false promises of lucrative employment, including domestic work, ushering services, and overseas placements.

He said the syndicate’s arrangement not only facilitated exploitation but also highlighted how organised criminal elements prey on the vulnerability of unsuspecting young women seeking legitimate opportunities.

“Further inquiry uncovered that the victims were manipulated into sending nude images and videos, which were subsequently transmitted to clients procuring sexual services.

“The principal suspect reportedly received the largest share of the proceeds, while the operation was disguised as producing “relationship content” on social media, misleading the public and masking criminal intent

“Following the rescue, the 15 victims were taken to the Police Hospital, Akure, for medical care, psychological evaluation, and counselling,” he said.

Mr Ayanlade explained that evidence indicated that the apartment was specifically rented to facilitate these activities, which prompted the Commissioner of Police (CP) to direct the landlord’s invitation for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.

He also stated that the CP directed the case be transferred to the command’s Gender Desk for further investigation, counselling, and reintegration of the victims into society.

According to the spokesperson, the CP issued a marching order that all arrested suspects must be prosecuted to demonstrate the command’s zero-tolerance stance on human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

“This reaffirms the command’s determination to eradicate criminal networks engaged in human trafficking and sexual exploitation,

“The CP has urged parents and guardians to verify job offers and recruitment agents before allowing their wards to travel.

“He also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information that can aid in preventing and detecting crime across the state, underscoring the vital role of community partnership in maintaining public safety,” he said.

(NAN)