Operatives from the Mowe Division of the Ogun State Police Command have successfully dismantled an illegal ‘baby factory’ syndicate operating in Abaren Village, Mowe, following an intelligence-driven operation.
The raid resulted in the rescue of two heavily pregnant women and four children, as well as the arrest of six suspects: Florence Ogbona (58), Magdalene Julius (63), Chidike Egwuonwu (40), Onyechu Chidike (35), Stephen Ogbona (39), and a nurse, Oseni Idaya.
The state police command described the arrests as a significant milestone in its ongoing campaign against human trafficking and child exploitation. Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, in a statement released to journalists on Tuesday, detailed that the operation took place on August 24, 2026, around 8:00 a.m., when officers stormed the syndicate’s hideout at Toluwalase Street, Abaren Village, following sustained intelligence that revealed ongoing human trafficking and illegal adoption activities at the location.
During the rescue, two pregnant victims— Ilesanmi Foluke (23), who is seven months pregnant, and Ejekwa Melody (20), eight months pregnant—were safely evacuated alongside four children (two boys and two girls).
Ongoing investigations led police to a hospital in the Mowe area, where another victim, Blessing Bright Effiong (26), had recently delivered a baby boy on August 20, 2026. While the mother is currently receiving medical care, the newborn’s whereabouts remain unknown, prompting the arrest of the attending nurse as efforts continue to locate the child.
The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Eleweran, Abeokuta, where authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the syndicate’s operations, find the missing infant, and ensure all responsible parties are prosecuted.
Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended the Mowe Division’s swift response and professionalism, reaffirming the command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating human trafficking, child trading, and violent crime throughout Ogun State. Ojajuni urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police by providing timely and credible information, assuring the public that intelligence-led policing will continue to be prioritized for the safety of all citizens.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities or individuals through the following channels: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111; Emergency Lines: 09164859299, 09154293464.
