Ondo mother, son arrested over alleged attempt to use boy for money ritual

By Muftau Ogunyemi

A 53 year-old woman simply identified as Maria and her son, Adewale are now in police net over alleged attempt to use 10-year-old boy for money ritual activities in Ile-Oluji, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Adewale and her 28 year-old son were arrested following on a tip-off from a concerned citizen, who reported a suspected ritual activity, Ondo Police Command spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh said in a statement on Saturday in Akure.

According to the statement, Maria and her son were arrested by operatives of the Ondo Police Command Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team on December 27.

The Police spokesperson said the arrest of the two suspects foiled their ritual activity as the 10-year-old boy allegedly intended to be used for the ritual was rescued.

He added that the victim has been taken to a hospital for medical attention.

“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 the ritual, was successfully rescued. Meanwhile, the victim has been taken to a hospital for medical attention.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that Maria conspired with her son, Adewale, to engage the services of a herbalist to use the victim for money rituals.

“The suspects are currently in police custody, where they reportedly confessed to the crime. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” he said.

The spokesperson explained that the Commissioner of Police (CP), Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for their swift response and professional conduct.

“The CP emphasises the critical role of intelligence-led policing in proactive crime prevention.

“Lawal reassures residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property across the state.

“The CP advised mothers to refrain from engaging in nefarious acts and instead, serve as positive role models to their children.

“He (CP) also warned parents to discourage their children from the “get-rich-quick” syndrome and to instill the values of hard work and integrity.

“Lawal also emphasises that through diligence and perseverance, they can achieve their aspirations in life,” he said.

Jimoh, therefore, called on the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station, as collective responsibility remains vital to the attainment of a safer society. (NAN)