Police Arrest Mother and Son Over Alleged Plot to Use 10-Year-Old Boy for Money R1tual

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a 53-year-old woman and her 28-year-old son for allegedly plotting to use a 10-year-old boy for money ritual purposes.

The suspects, identified as Maria and her son, Adewale, were apprehended in Ile-Oluji, the headquarters of Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area.

According to police sources, the child was rescued by operatives of the Police SWAT Tactical Team following a tip-off from a member of the public. The suspects were immediately taken into custody.

Police sources further disclosed that the suspects allegedly confessed to engaging the services of an herbalist as part of the planned ritual.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Mr Jimoh Abayomi, said the operation was carried out after credible information was received. He stated that officers acted promptly, leading to the rescue of the victim, who was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation.

Abayomi said preliminary investigations showed that the woman and her son conspired to carry out the act. He added that the suspects would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for their response and stressed the role of intelligence gathering in preventing crime. He assured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

Lawal also acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, noting that ongoing reforms and improved use of technology were strengthening police operations in the state.

The police commissioner advised parents to avoid criminal activities and to set positive examples for their children. He warned against the pursuit of quick wealth and urged the public to report suspicious activities to security agencies.