The police in Ondo State have arrested two individuals suspected of ritual activities in Ile-Oluji, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen. The operation, conducted on December 27, 2025, resulted in the rescue of a 10-year-old boy allegedly targeted for a ritual.
According to the Ondo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the suspects were identified as Maria, 53, and her son Adewale, 28. “The operation led to the arrest of two suspects… while a 10-year-old boy who was allegedly intended to be used for a ritual was successfully rescued. The victim has been taken to a hospital for medical attention,” Jimoh said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Maria conspired with her son to engage an herbalist, intending to use the child for a money ritual. “The suspects had planned to carry out their evil scheme by seeking the services of an herbalist to exploit the child for financial gain,” DSP Jimoh explained.
The suspects are currently in police custody and have reportedly confessed to the crime. Authorities are continuing investigations to uncover further details of the plot and any accomplices.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, warned parents against encouraging get-rich-quick schemes among children. He emphasized the importance of instilling values of hard work and integrity.
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DSP Jimoh also appealed to the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station promptly. “Community vigilance is critical to preventing such heinous acts,” he noted.
The case highlights ongoing concerns over ritualistic practices in parts of Nigeria and shows the role of public cooperation and law enforcement in safeguarding children.