Two individuals suspected to be involved in ritual activities have been apprehended in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, following a police operation carried out on December 27, 2025.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the SWAT Tactical Team after acting on credible intelligence and a tip-off from a concerned resident.
Confirming the development on Saturday, the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, explained how the operation was conducted.
“The operation led to the arrest of two Suspects identified as Maria (female, 53 years) and Adewale (male, 28 years), while a 10-year-old boy who was allegedly intended to be used for a ritual was successfully rescued. Meanwhile, the victim has been taken to a hospital for medical attention.”
Jimoh further disclosed details of the alleged plot, stating that preliminary findings showed that Maria allegedly conspired with her son, Adewale, to enlist the services of an herbalist to carry out a money ritual involving the child.
He added that the suspects are currently being held in police custody and have confessed to the offence, noting that they will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, cautioned parents against encouraging the “get-rich-quick” mentality among their children, urging them to promote values of diligence and integrity.
The police spokesperson also appealed to members of the public to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.