Alarm in Ondo as Police Arrest Mother, Son Over Alleged Child Ritual
There was apprehension in Ondo State after operatives of the Police Command arrested a 53-year-old woman and her 28-year-old son over an alleged attempt to use a 10-year-old boy for a money ritual in Ile-Oluji, headquarters of the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as Maria and her son, Adewale, were taken into custody following a coordinated operation by officers of the SWAT Tactical Team, acting on intelligence provided by a concerned citizen.
The timely intervention led to the rescue of the minor, who was reportedly held for the alleged ritual plan.
According to Police sources, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly conspired to engage the services of an herbalist to carry out the ritual.
The victim was successfully rescued during the operation and immediately taken to a hospital for medical examination and necessary care.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Jimoh Abayomi, said the arrest was made possible through credible information received from the public.
He explained that operatives swiftly moved in after the report was lodged, preventing the alleged crime from being carried out.
Abayomi disclosed that the suspects are currently in Police custody and have reportedly made confessional statements in connection with the allegation.
He added that they would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, described the arrest as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and community collaboration.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State.
The Commissioner also acknowledged the strategic leadership and continued support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, noting that ongoing reforms and technological innovations within the Nigeria Police Force have significantly enhanced operational efficiency.
CP Lawal cautioned parents, especially mothers, against engaging in criminal and immoral acts, urging them to serve as positive role models to their children.
He warned against the growing “get-rich-quick” mentality, advising parents to instill values of hard work, integrity and patience in their children.
The Ondo State Police Command further called on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest Police Station, stressing that collective responsibility remains crucial to the achievement of a safer and more secure society.
